Guidelines for Prevention of Transmission of Human Immunodeficiency Virus and Hepatitis B Virus to Health-Care and Public-Safety Workers: A Response to P.L. 100-607. The Health Omnibus Programs Extension Act of 1988

摘要

The publication was developed to serve as a guideline for health care workers and deals with methods for reducing the risk of becoming infected with the etiologic agent for acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) or hepatitis-B at the workplace. The single most important source of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and hepatitis-B virus (HBV) in the workplace setting has been blood. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimated that 12,000 health care workers whose jobs entail exposure to blood become infected with HBV each year. Those working in emergency medical or public safety sectors had increased risks. The risk of HIV infection in the workplace was discussed. Principles of infection control and their application to the job site were reviewed or emergency and public services workers and all those operating completely in hospital settings. Employer responsibilities were discussed, including: hepatitis-B vaccination; postexposure management; documentation of exposure; and procedures for disinfection, decontamination, and disposal. The use of personal protective equipment by fire and medical services was described. Guidelines were presented for infection control for law enforcement and correctional facility workers.