Infection Control and Safety Flashcards

According to OSHA's Bloodborne Pathogen Standard, which items are considered personal protective equipment (PPE) when handling blood specimens?

Answer: Gloves, gown, eye protection, and mask as appropriate

OSHA requires appropriate PPE including gloves, gown, eye protection, and mask depending on exposure risk.

Which hand hygiene method is most effective against Clostridioides difficile (C. diff) spores?

Answer: Soap and water handwashing

Alcohol-based products are ineffective against C. diff spores; soap and water physically remove them from hands.

What is the first action a medical assistant should take immediately after a needlestick injury?

Answer: Wash the site with soap and water for at least 15 minutes

Immediately washing with soap and water for at least 15 minutes helps reduce the risk of pathogen transmission.

Which of the following is required in a healthcare facility's Exposure Control Plan per OSHA?

Answer: Identification of tasks that may expose employees to bloodborne pathogens

OSHA's BBP standard requires employers to identify job tasks involving exposure risk in their written Exposure Control Plan.

When using Standard Precautions, gloves must be worn when:

Answer: Handling any body fluids, non-intact skin, or mucous membranes

Standard Precautions require gloves for contact with blood, body fluids, non-intact skin, and mucous membranes.

Sharps containers should be replaced when they are filled to what capacity?

Answer: Three-quarters (75%) full

Sharps containers should be sealed and replaced when they reach the fill line, typically at three-quarters capacity.