The risk of bloodborne infections in health care workers and their patients: possible preventive steps

Froom, P.; Ribak, J.; Cohen, H.; Froom, P; Ribak, J; Cohen, H

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The risk of bloodborne infections in health care workers and their patients: possible preventive steps

Froom, P.; Ribak, J.; Cohen, H.

Harefuah 140(10): 977

2001

ISSN/ISBN: 0017-7768

PMID: 11681136

Document Number: 535112

Hospital-based bloodborne infections are generally limited to viruses; hepatitis B virus, hepatitis C virus and the human immunodeficiency virus. The risk of infection by an infected patient to the health care worker is substantial. All preventable actions should be taken, including 3 injections of vaccine for hepatitis B, serological confirmation of protection, and further treatment if necessary. Since no preventable risk to a patient is acceptable, policies need to be set on the fitness-for-work of the infected surgeon. This article reviews the risks of bloodborne infections and preventive measures.