Blood Borne Pathogens Competency Quiz

Explanation
Hepatitis B virus is not easily cured. While there are treatments available for hepatitis B, it is a chronic condition that can last a lifetime. The goal of treatment is to manage the virus and prevent liver damage, but a complete cure is currently not possible. Treatment options include antiviral medications, regular monitoring of liver function, and lifestyle changes such as avoiding alcohol and certain medications that can further damage the liver.

Explanation
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) and HBV (Hepatitis B Virus) can be found in body fluids other than blood. These viruses can also be present in fluids like semen, vaginal secretions, breast milk, and saliva. It is important to note that the concentration of these viruses in these fluids may vary, but they can still be transmitted through these routes. Therefore, it is crucial to practice safe behaviors and take necessary precautions to prevent the spread of these viruses.

Explanation
Broken glass and exposed ends of dental wires are considered sharps because they have the potential to cause injury or transmit infectious diseases. Sharps are defined as objects that can puncture or cut the skin, and broken glass and dental wires fit this definition. When these objects are broken or exposed, they become even more dangerous and should be handled with caution to prevent accidents and the spread of infections. Therefore, the statement "Broken glass and exposed ends of dental wires are considered sharps" is true.

Explanation
Facial acne can create open wounds or lesions on the skin, which can serve as entry points for bloodborne pathogens to enter the body. These pathogens can include viruses like HIV or hepatitis, which can be transmitted through blood or bodily fluids. Therefore, it is true that facial acne can be a potential route of entry for bloodborne pathogens.

Explanation
Contaminated environmental surfaces can play a significant role in the spread of HIV, especially in settings like hemodialysis units. These units often involve close contact between healthcare providers and patients, increasing the risk of transmission through contaminated surfaces. This highlights the importance of proper disinfection and hygiene practices in such settings to prevent the spread of HIV and other infections.

Explanation
The statement suggests that to consult a copy of your employer's Exposure Control, you should check at your local library. However, this is not true. It is unlikely that a local library would have a copy of your employer's specific Exposure Control. It would be more appropriate to consult with your employer directly or refer to any resources provided by your employer for accessing the Exposure Control information.

Explanation
Controlling the spread of bloodborne infections is a complex task that requires multiple strategies and interventions. While various measures such as proper hygiene practices, use of personal protective equipment, and vaccination can significantly reduce the risk of transmission, no single approach can guarantee complete effectiveness. There are always possibilities of human error, unexpected circumstances, or new strains of infections that may limit the effectiveness of any one method. Therefore, it is true that no single approach to controlling the spread of bloodborne infections is 100 percent effective.

Explanation
Universal precautions refers to a set of guidelines that healthcare workers follow to prevent the spread of infection. It involves treating all blood and body fluids as potentially infectious, regardless of the person's age. Therefore, the statement that universal precautions only apply to individuals aged 18 to 65 is false.

Explanation
When recapping needles, it is important to use one hand, not two hands. Using two hands can increase the risk of needlestick injuries as it requires more coordination and can lead to accidental pricks. The correct practice is to hold the cap with one hand and use the other hand to guide the needle into the cap, ensuring that the cap is securely attached.

Explanation
It is important to wash your hands with soap and running water as soon as possible after removing gloves because gloves can become contaminated with germs. Washing hands properly helps to remove any potential pathogens that may have been transferred from the gloves to the hands. This practice is especially crucial in healthcare settings or when handling potentially harmful substances. Therefore, the statement is true.

Explanation
The statement is false because once blood gets on your hands, you can still take preventative measures. You can immediately wash your hands with soap and water to reduce the risk of infection or transmission of any diseases. Additionally, using hand sanitizers or wearing gloves can also help prevent the spread of bloodborne pathogens. It is important to take prompt action to protect yourself and others in such situations.

Explanation
Storing food next to blood, even if it is in a bag or lunchbox, is not okay. Blood can contain harmful bacteria or pathogens that can contaminate the food and cause illness if consumed. It is important to store food properly and separately from any potentially hazardous substances like blood to ensure food safety.

Explanation
The given statement suggests that the type of protective equipment required for a task depends on the level of exposure expected. However, this statement is false. The selection of protective equipment should be based on a thorough assessment of the hazards present in the task, rather than the anticipated degree of exposure. It is important to identify and evaluate all potential hazards before determining the appropriate protective equipment to ensure the safety of individuals performing the task.

Explanation
If you are allergic to latex or nylon, it is important to wear gloves that are made from alternative materials such as vinyl or nitrile. This is because latex and nylon gloves can trigger an allergic reaction in individuals who are allergic to these materials. Therefore, the statement "You don't have to wear any gloves if you are allergic to latex or nylon" is false, as wearing gloves made from alternative materials is necessary for individuals with these allergies.

Explanation
The statement is false because personal protective equipment (PPE) is necessary to ensure safety in certain situations. Even if it may be annoying or uncomfortable, wearing PPE is crucial to protect oneself from potential hazards or injuries. Ignoring the use of PPE can lead to serious consequences and compromise safety measures. Therefore, it is important to prioritize safety over personal comfort when it comes to wearing protective equipment.

Explanation
You should not patch any holes in damaged utility gloves before reusing them. Damaged gloves should be discarded and replaced with new ones to ensure proper protection and prevent any potential injuries or contamination. Patching the holes may not provide adequate protection and can compromise the effectiveness of the gloves.

Explanation
The statement "Hepatitis B vaccines used in the US cannot transmit blood borne pathogens" is false. Hepatitis B vaccines are made from inactivated or recombinant viral particles, which means they do not contain live viruses that can transmit blood borne pathogens. Therefore, receiving the vaccine cannot result in the transmission of blood borne pathogens.

Explanation
Good housekeeping is not solely the responsibility of housekeeping or environmental services staff. It is the responsibility of everyone in the organization, including employees, managers, and even visitors. Maintaining a clean and organized environment is essential for safety, productivity, and overall well-being. Therefore, it is incorrect to state that good housekeeping is solely the responsibility of housekeeping or environmental services staff.

Explanation
Contaminated laundry should not be rinsed and placed in the same bags or containers where it was used. This is because rinsing contaminated laundry can spread the contaminants and increase the risk of contamination. Instead, contaminated laundry should be placed in appropriate bags or containers that are designated for contaminated laundry and labeled as such. This helps to prevent the spread of contaminants and ensures proper handling and disposal of the contaminated items.

Explanation
You are not required to report the incident to your supervisor within 14 days if you are exposed.