Download January 2016 - Cardio Partner Resources

January
16
this issue
Universal Precautions
Blood Borne Pathogens
CPR Steps
Take a moment to
review the basic steps
of Adult CPR:
• Make sure the scene is
safe
• Check for Response
• If no response, call for
help (911)
• Check for breathing
(5-10 sec.)
• If no breathing, Start
CPR
• Provide 30
compressions to the
center of the victims
chest
• Pinch nose, perform
head-tilt-chin-lift, and
give 2 slow breaths
watching for chest rise
• Repeat until help
arrives, an AED is
available, or you are
too tired to continue
Blood Borne Pathogens
Universal Precautions & Personal
Protective Equipment
Universal Precautions are infection
control guidelines designed to protect rescuers
from exposure to diseases spread by blood and
certain body fluids. Universal Precautions are to
be used for every victim, whether they are your
best friend, or a total stranger.
If you don’t have the proper
PPE available for a situation,
don’t put yourself at risk.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) refers to
gloves, goggles, CPR masks, and other equipment
that protects the rescuer from blood-borne
pathogens. This equipment provides a barrier
between the rescuer and the victim, and prevents
exposure to potentially infections materials.
Exposure
What is considered an exposure?
Our unbroken skin provides an
impervious barrier to blood-borne
pathogens. But these pathogens can
enter our body through damaged or
broken skin, such as a laceration. Our
mucous membranes also provide an
entrance point. Mucous membranes
can be found in our nose, mouth, and
around our eyes. If any potentially
infectious material comes in contact
with broken or damaged skin, or
mucous membranes, that is considered
an exposure.
What if I get exposed?
If you come in contact with
blood or other potentially infectious
material, immediately rinse the area
with running water, and wash area with
non-abrasive antibacterial soap. If the
exposure was to the eyes, nose, or
mouth flush the area with copious
amounts of running water.
Once the area has been
cleaned or rinsed, report the incident to
your supervisor. The incident should
be documented, and medical
evaluation and care should be arranged
in accordance with your company
policy.