Final answer:
Employers are required to ensure the Routine use of Universal Precautions (C) according to OSHA guidelines to prevent transmission of bloodborne pathogens like HBV in healthcare settings. These include wearing PPE, proper handling of sharps, and maintaining cleanliness and sterilization to protect both workers and patients.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Bloodborne Pathogens Standard requires employers to implement Universal Precautions, which is a key concept in preventing the transmission of infectious diseases such as Hepatitis B virus (HBV) in healthcare settings. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), employers in health-care settings are mandated to adhere to these standards to ensure a safe work environment for their employees.
The correct answer to the question regarding employer requirements for Universal Precautions is C) Routine use of Universal Precautions. This means that healthcare workers are always required to follow precautionary measures when dealing with any potential exposure to bloodborne pathogens. These measures include wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) like gloves and face shields, using disposable needles and syringes, and following strict protocols for disinfection and sterilization.
The goal of Universal Precautions is to reduce the risk of occupational exposure to blood and other potentially infectious materials. This routine use of precautions is essential, not only for worker safety but also for patient safety, thereby lowering the incidence of bloodborne disease transmission.