Introduction to Bloodborne PathogenÂ
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.
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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
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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.