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Bloodborne pathogens are diseases and germs, such as hepatitis B and C and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), which can be spread through contaminated blood.

Although most people don’t typically associate bloodborne pathogens as a risk in the average work environment, anything from a bloody nose to an accident with a stapler can potentially introduce bloodborne diseases and germs into the workplace. In more “dangerous” workplaces, such as industrial facilities, construction zones and other places where serious injury could potentially occur, bloodborne pathogens training is vital. In any workplace, ensuring that at least one employee has received bloodborne pathogens training can lead to a safer work environment. 

The bloodborne pathogens course, offered online by Health Ed Solutions, is designed to provide essential yet simple information to protect employees in a work setting. The information and procedures you learn in the bloodborne pathogens training will help you protect yourself and others should an emergency situation introduce blood or blood-containing materials into the workplace. 

The bloodborne pathogens online training course uses the acronym PACT to help you remember what to do if an emergency situation presents itself. 

P is for protect

First and foremost, protect yourself. If your coworker is in a dangerous location (e.g., he or she is lying among broken glass), remember to protect yourself using personal protective equipment if available before helping him or her. Personal protective equipment includes goggles, face shield, gloves, gown or apron, foot booties or shoe covers, cap or hood. 

A is for act

Use your bloodborne pathogens training to stop the bleeding in a safe and effective manner. Remember to practice “universal precautions,” meaning you assume that any blood or blood-containing materials could be infected with a bloodborne pathogen. 

C is for clean

After stopping initial bleeding and ensuring your coworker is safe and secure, work with others on your team to clean up any blood and safely dispose of any materials contaminated with blood or blood-containing substances. Always wash your hands with soap and lots of water. This is the most effective form of protection for you and others if there is potential exposure to bloodborne pathogens. 

T is for tell

Tell your supervisor and any other members of the management team about the incident and what was done to fix and clean it up. Remember to respond according to your exposure control plan if one exists for your organization. 

Health Ed Solutions, a leading provider of continuing education solutions for healthcare professionals, offers bloodborne pathogens training online. This course, along with the others including first aid certification online and CPR and AED certification online, are designed for medical professionals and the general public seeking to be better prepared in an emergency situation. Both certification and recertification are offered online for these courses.

The information included in this article is based on the 2020 guidelines for CPR, first aid and advanced cardiovascular care. Read more about the 2020 first aid guidelines.