Final answer:
Materials contaminated with blood or bodily fluids must be disposed of in a biohazard waste container and sterilized properly, such as by autoclaving. Health-care workers should follow precautions and wash hands thoroughly after disposal. The CDC and NIH provide guidelines for biological safety and handling of infectious materials.
Step-by-step explanation:
Proper Disposal of Materials Contaminated with Blood or Bodily Fluids
Proper disposal of materials that have come into contact with blood or bodily fluids is critical for maintaining health and safety standards. These materials must be disposed of in a designated biohazard waste container. The international symbol for biohazards will mark these containers to ensure they are easily recognizable. It's also important that all biohazard waste is sterilized by methods such as autoclaving before it can be included in the waste stream to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.
Health-care workers need to take appropriate precautions to prevent infection, including wearing protective clothing and handling materials with care. After disposal, it is crucial to wash hands with soap to reduce the risk of contamination or infection. In cases of accidental contact with the skin, immediate washing with detergent and warm water followed by a cleansing with a bleach solution is recommended. The guidelines set by the CDC and the NIH establish various biological safety levels and practices for handling and disposing of infectious agents and potentially contaminated materials.