Final answer:
Healthcare workers should use gloves, face protection, disposable syringes, and needles to protect against HIV and hepatitis B. Surfaces should be disinfected with bleach, and exposed skin must be washed immediately. Vaccination and proper waste disposal protocols are also vital.
Step-by-step explanation:
To protect against HIV, hepatitis B, and other infectious diseases, healthcare workers should carry appropriate protective equipment. This includes wearing gloves and face protection such as masks or goggles, and utilizing disposable syringes and needles to avoid contact with blood and body fluids, which are primary means of transmission. Surfaces potentially exposed to infectious agents should be disinfected with solutions such as 10% bleach. In case of exposure, immediate washing of the area with soap and warm water is recommended, followed by disinfection with a 1:10 dilution of bleach or 1 N NaOH for one minute. Instruments must also be properly cleaned and soaked in a strong basic solution. Furthermore, vaccination and post-exposure treatment protocols are available for healthcare personnel.
In addition to using these protective measures, it is also crucial to follow protocols for the disposal of contaminated waste and the sterilization of equipment. Contaminated waste should be incinerated or autoclaved, and the culture-working areas should always be maintained with utmost cleanliness. Moreover, healthcare workers are encouraged to get vaccinated against HBV to reduce the risk of infection.