Final answer:
To reduce the risk of exposure to bloodborne pathogens during venipuncture, a PCT should practice hand hygiene, wear disposable gloves, utilize safety-engineered needles, avoid recapping needles, dispose of sharps immediately, maintain a sterile field, and properly dispose of contaminated materials.
Step-by-step explanation:
To reduce the risk of exposure to bloodborne pathogens during venipuncture, a Patient Care Technician (PCT) should follow these steps:
- Thoroughly wash hands both before and after the procedure.
- Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as disposable gloves.
- Use safety-engineered needles that have a mechanism to protect against needlestick injuries.
- Make sure to never recap a needle. If recapping is absolutely necessary, use the one-handed scoop technique to avoid accidental needlesticks.
- Dispose of all sharp objects in a puncture-resistant sharps container immediately after use.
- Follow proper aseptic technique to maintain a sterile field.
- After the procedure, dispose of gloves and other contaminated materials in a biohazard waste container.
If an exposure occurs, it is critical to follow the facility's protocol for post-exposure management.