Final answer:
When exposed to blood, a practitioner should immediately use protective equipment, wash the area with soap and water, and receive post-exposure treatment if necessary. Surfaces must be disinfected, and practitioners should follow detailed protocols to manage exposure. Safety measures are critical for preventing blood-borne illnesses.
Step-by-step explanation:
If a practitioner is exposed to blood during the course of offering a service to a client, they must follow protocols designed to prevent infection by blood-borne pathogens such as the hepatitis B virus (HBV) and others. Immediately, the practitioner should make use of protective equipment such as gloves and face shields to minimize further contact. If exposure occurs, the area should be washed with soap and water promptly, and appropriate antiseptics may be applied though they are not the primary defense.
In the event of potential exposure to HBV from an infected patient, the practitioner should receive post-exposure treatment, including hepatitis B immunoglobulin (HBIG) and vaccination as prescribed. All contaminated surfaces must be disinfected; for example, the CDC recommends a solution of 10% bleach for effective disinfection. Moreover, practitioners should adhere to detailed protocols available for managing exposure to blood and other potentially infectious body fluids, which include regular testing of blood products to prevent transmission during medical procedures like transfusions.
Practitioners working in health care settings, especially those at higher risk for needle sticks like phlebotomists or dentists, should be vigilant about employing these safety measures to protect themselves and their patients from blood-borne illnesses.