Exposure Response

Bloodborne Pathogen Exposure Response

1. Provide immediate care to exposure site.
   1. Wash wound (needlestick/cut) with soap and water.
   2. Irrigate eyes with clean water, saline, or sterile wash.
   3. Flush mucous membranes (nose/mouth) with water.
2. Notify immediate supervisor or laboratory PI.
   1. Students - Accident/Injury Near Miss Report within 24 hours.
   2. Employees - WCI First Report of Injury within 24 hours.
3. Obtain a sample of the source patients' blood for analysis.
4. Seek medical attention within 2 hours at the following locations:
   1. Students
      • UTRGV Health Services: Mon-Fri (8am - 5pm)
      • Emergency Room (24/7)
   2. Employees
      • UTRGV primary and acute care clinics.
      • Emergency Room (24/7)
      • Your physician.
5. Exposure will be evaluated by a trained health care professional.
   1. Exposure (percutaneous, mucous membrane non-intact skin or bite)
   2. Substance (blood, fluids contain visible blood, OPIM)
   3. Status of source patient (presence of HBV, HIV, HCV antibodies)
   4. Your susceptibility (HBV immune status, HIV antibody, Anti HCV and ALT)
6. Comply with follow-up testing recommended by a health care professional.

Guidance for Student Claims

• utrgv.myahpcare.com

Note – Students are prohibited from participating in clinical rotations unless documentation that proof of adherence to the procedures are demonstrated.