Post Exposure Procedures for Students

Post Exposure Procedures involving needle sticks or other potential exposure to any bloodborne pathogens by a student.

Exposure Incidents
The following events are considered an exposure:
1. Percutaneous injury involving a potentially contaminated needle, or other sharp instruments.
2. A splash of blood, or other potentially infectious materials to the eyes, mouth or mucous membranes.
3. Blood, or other potentially infectious materials contacting broken skin, and human bites, that cause a break in the skin.
AN EXPOSURE INCIDENT REQUIRES IMMEDIATE ACTION.
In the event of an exposure or needlestick:
Do not panic! It is not helpful. Clear thinking and immediate action are the best course of action.

Cleanse the exposure area immediately for at least two minutes if possible.
- If it’s a skin wound:
  - Cleanse the area with water and disinfectant soap.
- If it is an eye exposure:
  - Irrigate eyes with saline if available, otherwise, rinse with copious amounts of water.
- If it’s a mouth exposure:
  - Rinse mouth out with copious amounts of water.
Medical Response:
According to the CDC, the exposed person should seek a medical evaluation as soon as possible, including initial screening; counseling concerning risk, health, and relationships; and follow-up testing.
- Following the CDC's suggestions, one should seek medical attention swiftly. Some suggestions are to call your doctor or go to urgent care or the hospital emergency room.
- Tell the receptionist that you experienced a blood exposure.
- To be clear, the student is responsible for using their own health insurance for any medical visits associated with their exposure.
- The source individual should be tested and, if possible, at the same location as the exposed individual.
Forms

Post Exposure Procedures for Students

Exposure Incidents

In the event of an exposure or needlestick:

Medical Response:

Forms