Safety & Infection Control Flashcards

What are the written and spoken protocols for infectious disease exposure recommended by OSHA called?

Answer: universal precautions

Universal Precautions are an infection control strategy developed by OSHA that mandates treating all human blood and certain body fluids as if they are known to be infectious for HIV, HBV, and other bloodborne pathogens. These protocols include specific guidelines for personal protective equipment (PPE), safe handling of sharps, and proper disposal of contaminated materials to protect healthcare workers from exposure.

What kind of material ought to be thrown away in a biohazard bag?

Answer: All of these

Needles, lancets, and capillary tubes are all considered contaminated sharps or potentially infectious waste after use. They must be disposed of in designated puncture-resistant sharps containers, which are then typically placed into biohazard bags or containers for proper disposal according to biohazard waste regulations. This prevents needlestick injuries and the spread of infectious agents.

Which of the following claims about the norm for infection control precautions is untrue?

Answer: use both hands to recap needles

Recapping needles using both hands is a dangerous practice that significantly increases the risk of accidental needlestick injuries. Standard infection control precautions, including OSHA guidelines, strictly prohibit recapping needles by hand. Instead, safety-engineered devices or the one-handed scoop method should be used if recapping is absolutely necessary, though proper disposal in a sharps container is always preferred.

What classification is given to flames containing materials like paper, plastic, and cloth that are typically combustible?

Answer: Class A

Class A fires involve ordinary combustible materials such as wood, paper, cloth, rubber, and many plastics. These fires are typically extinguished by cooling the fuel with water or by using dry chemical extinguishers. Understanding fire classifications is crucial for selecting the appropriate extinguishing agent and ensuring safety.

When is hand washing not required of healthcare personnel?

Answer: when arriving at work

Hand washing is a critical infection control measure required before and after patient contact, after removing gloves, after contact with body fluids, before leaving the laboratory, and whenever hands are visibly soiled. While good hygiene is always encouraged, there is no specific requirement for healthcare personnel to wash their hands immediately upon *arriving* at work, unless they have visible contamination or are about to engage in patient care.

What sort of isolation is frequently used for patients who have intravenous devices, catheters that are infected, and surgical wounds?

Answer: wound and skin isolation

Wound and skin isolation, also known as contact precautions, is implemented for patients with infections that can be transmitted through direct contact with skin, wounds, or contaminated items. This includes patients with infected intravenous devices, infected catheters, or surgical wounds, as these can harbor pathogens like MRSA or VRE. PPE such as gloves and gowns are essential.