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Hand Washing

Universal Precautions

Universal precautions are infection control guidelines designed to protect people from diseases spread by blood and certain body fluids. Always assume that all "blood and body fluids" are infectious for blood-borne diseases such as HBV (Hepatitis B Virus), HCV (Hepatitis C Virus) and HIV (Human Immuno-deficiency Virus).

Should Universal Precautions apply to you?
Yes, if you are exposed to blood and certain other body fluids including:
 Semen
 Vaginal Secretions
 Body tissues
 Cerebrospinal Fluid
 Synovial Fluid
 Pleural Fluid
 Peritoneal Fluid
 Pericardial Fluid
 Amniotic Fluid

When should universal precautions NOT apply to me?
If you are exposed to the following, universal precautions need not apply:
 Saliva (except in dental settings, where saliva is likely to be contaminated with blood)
 Feces
 Nasal Secretions
 Sputum
 Sweat
 Tears
 Urine
 Vomitus

When it is difficult to identify the specific body fluid or when body fluids are visibly contaminated with blood, then universal precautions are ALWAYS to be applied.

How can I prevent exposure to blood and body fluids?
Barriers are used for protection against exposure to blood and certain body fluids.
 Condoms
 Gloves
 Protective eyewear when necessary

Knowledge can also provide protection.
1. Recognize the potential hazards: blood and body fluids

2. Know your roles and responsibilities for personal safety:
 Protective Barriers, i.e. gloves
 Clean-up
 Disposal

3. Be familiar with proper techniques
 How to clean up blood/body fluid spills
 How to dispose of contaminated materials
 Proper hand washing techniques

How should I clean up blood/body fluids?
1. Put on disposable gloves
2. Wipe up blood or body fluids with absorbent paper towels
3. Place contaminated paper towels in a new plastic garbage bag
4. Clean and rinse area with usual disinfectant
5. Wipe the surface with a 1:10 dilution of household bleach in water. This concentration can be achieved by mixing 1 ounce of household bleach with 9 ounces of tap water (1:10 dilution). This disinfectant will have a shelf life of one shift ONLY.
6. Dispose into the same plastic garbage bag: the cloths used to wipe up and your gloves, removing gloves last.
7. Secure bag with tie
8. Dispose of plastic garbage bag as per your department's instructions
9. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water for 5 minutes
10. Rinse under running water
11. Dry hands.