Final answer:
Health-care workers must use PPE and follow strict sterilization and disinfection protocols to prepare implements exposed to blood or body fluids. This includes attending to accidental exposures with appropriate treatment and ensuring equipment is properly cleaned and disinfected.
Step-by-step explanation:
Preparing Implements Exposed to Blood or Body Fluids
To prepare implements that may accidentally be exposed to blood or body fluids, health-care workers must practice rigorous sterilization and disinfection protocols. It is vital to maintain a sterile environment to prevent the transmission of infections such as hepatitis B virus (HBV). Precautions should include the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) like gloves and face protection, properly disposing of needles and syringes, and thorough washing of exposed skin. In case of exposure, post-exposure treatment with hepatitis B immunoglobulin (HBIG) and vaccination may be indicated. Surfaces should be disinfected with a 10% bleach solution as the virus can remain infectious for up to seven days. Instruments should also be properly cleaned and soaked in a strong basic solution after use. This ensures the safety of both the health-care workers and patients, minimizing the risk of infection transmission through contaminated equipment.