Final answer:
All surfaces, tools, and equipment in contact with blood or potentially infectious materials need thorough cleaning and disinfection; protective gear is also necessary. Immediate washing and specific disinfectant procedures must be followed. Contaminated waste should be properly disposed of through incineration or autoclaving.
Step-by-step explanation:
When handling blood or other potentially infectious materials, it is crucial to implement appropriate decontamination procedures to prevent the spread of infection. Surfaces, tools, and equipment that come into contact with these materials must be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. Personnel must wear protective gear including a coat, face protection, and cut-resistant gloves to avoid direct contact. In case of skin contact, immediate washing with detergent and warm water is necessary, followed by disinfecting with 1 N NaOH or a 1:10 dilution of bleach for 1 minute. All contaminated waste should be incinerated or treated with autoclaving in a strong basic solution. Reusable instruments must be meticulously cleaned and soaked in a strong basic solution to ensure complete sterilization. Such rigorous hygiene practices, including handwashing before and after contact with patients, are essential to maintain a safe health-care environment and minimize the risk of pathogen transmission.