AORN Journal
Volume 83, Issue 4 , Pages 833-846, April 2006

Bloodborne pathogen exposure in the OR—What research has taught us and where we need to go

  • David L. Taylor III, RN

      Affiliations

    • David L. Taylor III, RN, MSN, CPT, AN, USA, is the deputy chief of the US, Army OR Specialist Course, Ft Sam, Houston, San Antonio, Tex.

ABSTRACT 

•CONTRACTING A DISEASE from bloodborne pathogens has been identified as an occupational hazard for perioperative personnel for more than two decades. Perioperative staff members are particularly vulnerable to percutaneous exposure.

•DESPITE KNOWN HAZARDS, research has shown that perioperative staff members continue to take risks by not consistently complying with standard precautions and not reporting all percutaneous injuries.

•HEALTH CARE WORKERS (HCWs) and their employers need to work together to ensure that workplaces are safe. This article discusses mechanisms of bloodborne pathogen transmission, compliance with standard guidelines, and the social and economic costs of contracting a bloodborne illness. Steps to ensure that HCWs are protected also are outlined.

 

 This program meets criteria for CNOR and CRNFA recertification, as well as other continuing education requirements.A minimum score of 70% on the multiple choice examination is necessary to earn 2.8 contact hours for this independent study.Purpose/Goal: To educate perioperative nurses about bloodborne pathogen exposure in the OR and what can be done to minimize risk for perioperative personnel.Editor's note: The opinions or assertions contained in this article are the private views of the author and are not to be construed as official or as reflecting the views of the US Army Medical Department or the Department of Defense.

PII: S0001-2092(06)60004-5

doi:10.1016/S0001-2092(06)60004-5

AORN Journal
Volume 83, Issue 4 , Pages 833-846, April 2006

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