Final answer:
Health-care workers face a high risk of Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) infection from blood/OPIM splash, especially when it contacts non-intact skin or mucous membranes. Strict adherence to personal protective equipment and hygiene practices, along with post-exposure treatments, is essential in managing and reducing infection risk.
Step-by-step explanation:
There is a higher risk of infection of Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) from blood/Other Potentially Infectious Materials (OPIM) splash onto non-intact skin or mucous membranes than other Bloodborne Pathogens (BBPs). Health-care workers, including dentists and phlebotomists, and individuals such as drug addicts who may use needles, are particularly at risk due to potential contact with infected blood.
Precautions such as using personal protective equipment, including gloves and face protection, maintaining good hygiene practices, and following proper disinfection and sterilization protocols are vital to minimize the risk of infection. Post-exposure treatments such as hepatitis B immunoglobulin and vaccination are critical. Prompt cleaning and disinfection, including using a 10% bleach solution for surfaces, and regular testing of blood products contribute to reducing the risk of HBV transmission.