Infection Control

There is a risk that some infections

may be transmitted during
first aid activities.

Certain blood born viruses
such as Hepatitis B and C

and the Human Immunodeficiency
virus, HIV,

cause the greatest concerns.

However other infections
may also be transmitted.

Try to avoid contact with blood
and other bodily fluids

by using protective devices.

Such as disposable gloves,
resuscitation barriers,

eye protection and plastic bags.

Be careful of broken glass
or other sharp objects

when kneeling to assist a casualty.

Reduce the risks of infection by

being immunised against
disease where possible.

And be clear in understanding
your workplace policy

on infection control procedures.

Medical attention should be
sort if there are any concerns

following exposure
to bodily fluids or

puncture wounds such
as needle stick injury.

Hand washing and drying is the
most important hygiene measure

in preventing spread of
infection in any setting.

A mild liquid hand wash should be
used for routine hand washing,

and emergency first aid situations.

Skin disinfectants, formulated
for use without water

may also be used.

Standards precautions
for managing blood

and body substance spills.

Spots and spills
should be removed

as soon as practical before
the area is thoroughly cleaned.

Spill kits may be used for cleaning

but are optional.

When cleaning spills, always wear
personal protective equipment,

such as disposable gloves, eye
protection and protective clothing.

Isolate the area

and ensure you have the
correct cleaning equipment.

In managing a large spill,
greater than 10cm in diameter,

cover the entire spill with granular
disinfectant or clumping agent

and leave for 3 - 10 minutes,

depending on the
labelling instructions.

Granular disinfectants or
clumping agents help soak up,

solidify and confine
hazardous material.

Use disposable scrapers
to collect waste

and then wipe area
with absorbent material

to remove any remaining matter.

Place all contaminated
material, including gloves,

into a plastic bag and seal.

Wash hands thoroughly.

And mop the area
with detergent and water.

Where spills are less
than 10cm in diameter

the procedure is the same,

except there is no need
to use a granular disinfectant

or clumping agent.

A safe method for syringe disposal

is to find a rigid walled container

for example a glass or plastic jar
or drink bottle with a lid.

Gloves can be worn but are not
always necessary or available.

Take the container to the syringe

and carefully pick it
up by the fat end.

Drop the syringe into the container,
pointy end first and seal with a lid.

Never attempt to bend or remove
the needle from the syringe.

Contact the local council,

or health service for collection
and disposal information.