SERVICES

Treatment for Exposure to Human Blood/Body Fluids

Here are the steps you should take when exposed to human blood/body fluids:

First aid – Allow puncture sites to bleed. Clean wounds with soap and water. Flush eyes, nose or mouth with water for 15 minutes.

Identify the source of the exposure – Get the name and medical record number of the person who is the source of your exposure. Occupational Health will also need the brand and gauge size of the instrument involved in the injury.

Obtain medical care – Medication to prevent HIV infection is best if started during the first 1-2 hours after exposure but may be started up to 24 hours after the exposure. Occasionally medication can be started later, but it is less effective after 24 hours.

• Go to the Occupational Health Clinic (640 Medical Arts Building). If off campus, call OHC 936-0955 for instructions
• After 5:30 pm until 7:30 am, weekends, or holidays go to the Adult Emergency Room

Report the exposure/injury to your supervisor and the Vanderbilt Office of Risk and Insurance Management by completing the Tennessee First Report of Injury form.

After you receive care

If you are seen in the Emergency Department, contact Occupational Health on the next business day to ensure proper documentation and follow-up.

How to order labs for the source patient

View the presentation Blood and Body Fluid Exposures: Source Patient Testing in WizOrder for instructions on ordering source patient labs.

Posted on Thursday, September 29, 2011 in Occupational Exposures, Occupational Health Clinic, Services and tagged Return To Work Program, Work Injury and Exposures, Work Injury/Illness Care