Act fast. Follow protocol. Protect yourself and others.
What is a ‘significant occupational exposure’?
Any incident where blood or body fluids from a patient come into contact with a staff member’s broken skin, mucous membranes or via a sharps injury.
What are common bloodborne viruses of concern?
Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C and HIV are the most serious bloodborne viruses (BBVs) in health and social care settings.
What should I do immediately after exposure?
- Wash the area thoroughly with soap and water
- Do not scrub or squeeze the wound
- If eyes or mouth are exposed, rinse with water or saline
- Report the incident to your line manager and occupational health team
Is Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) available?
Yes. For HIV exposure, PEP should be started ideally within 1 hour of exposure, but within this should be within the first 72 hours of exposure. Hepatitis B immunoglobulin may also be required depending on your vaccination status.
What happens after reporting the incident?
You’ll undergo a risk assessment, baseline blood tests and possibly source patient testing. Follow-up testing and support will be arranged by occupational health.
Do I need to know my Hepatitis B vaccination status?
Yes. Your immunity level will guide the response. If you’re not immune, you may need urgent treatment.
What if the source patient’s status is unknown?
Risk is assessed based on clinical factors. Testing may be requested with consent. Occupational health will guide next steps.