Introduction to Bloodborne Pathogen 

A bloodborne pathogen is an infectious microorganism present in blood that can cause diseases. This includes hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), as well as other diseases. HCPs exposed to bloodborne pathogens are at risk for life-threatening illnesses.

 

Bloodborne pathogens are most commonly associated with blood, but they can be found in other body fluids:

• Fluids that are contaminated or contain blood
• Blood products (plasma, serum, etc.)
• Saliva and oral secretions
• Peritoneal fluid (body cavity)
• Amniotic fluid (uterine)
• Synovial fluid (joint)
• Pleural fluid (lung)
• Vaginal secretions
• Semen
• Any unidentified body fluid should be considered potentially infectious

 

Other Potentially Infectious Material (OPIM)

In addition to the list above, blood may be present in other body parts, such as unfixed tissue and organs. These materials are considered a possible source of infection and referred to as Other Potentially Infectious Materials or OPIMs. Urine, feces, vomit, tears, sweat, and sputum are not considered sources of BBP unless they are visibly contaminated with blood. At the same time, standard precautions should be taken when handling these materials.

Bloodborne Pathogen Transmission

Bloodborne Pathogens can be transmitted if infected blood or OPIM enters your body through these modes of transmission:

• Parenteral exposure from sharp objects like needles cuts from broken glass,
• Illegal drug use
• Abrasions and human bites.
• A mucous membrane in the mouth, eye, and nose.
• Sexual contact
• Accidental punctures from contaminated needles and other sharps

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OSHA Standard

OSHA's Bloodborne Pathogens Standard is a regulation that prescribes safeguards to protect workers against health hazards related to bloodborne pathogens. The standard imposes requirements on employers of workers who may be exposed to blood or OPIM. These are:

 

• Establishing an exposure control plan
• Requiring the use of universal precautions
• Identifying and using engineering and work practice controls
• Providing appropriate PPE
• Making Hepatitis B Vaccination available
• Using signs and labels to communicate hazards
• Providing information and Bloodborne Pathogens training to employees
• Maintaining medical and training record
• Providing medical evaluations for exposure incidents