Microorganisms and bacteria survive on non-antimicrobial services such as bedrails, call buttons, bed trays, bathroom fixtures and just about anywhere that a patient touches lies, or uses. This is very troublesome in hospital environments when patients have compromised immune systems and weakened bodies. This produces a high probably of contracting hospital born infections.

To stay relatively healthy when you are in a hospital setting, be aware of the areas that can be covered with germs. Watch for products made with antimicrobial coppery alloys, plus copper-nickel surfaces that destroy a wide range of microorganism. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has mandated that hospitals begin using these types of metal alloys in the construction of patient implements such as tray, rails, and fixtures.

There are other methods that are required by the Occupational Safety and hazard Administration (OSHA) to prevent the spread of infection.

Infection Prevention Methods

Heath care workers are often exposed to infections in the course of their medical work. These infections can be passed on to other workers as well as to patients and family members. Some ways to prevent the spreading of infections includes:

-Vaccinating health care workers who may be exposed to infections while at work is a requirement. Depending on the regulation, recommendations and the work function or personal preference health care works and first responders should receive vaccinations for influenza, measles, mumps, hepatitis B, Tetanus, pertussis, diphtheria and N. meningitis. Vaccines do not guarantee total protection from these infectious diseases and there is a potential for side effects from vaccines, but OSHA in conjunction with HIPAA laws do require that health care workers be vaccinated.

-If vaccines do not exist in the health care worker’s environment, post exposure prophylaxis is a way to protect the health care worker and the patient. As an example, if the viral particles that cause HIV are accidently transmitted to the healthcare worker, a preventive injection of antibodies can be given within four hours of the exposure.

-The CDC watches and investigates infections that can cause epidemics. If an infection requires a review of the patient’s chart to see if there are signs and symptoms of an infection, an Infection Control Practitioner will be involved. Do be aware that if you are infectious, your rights will be protected under HIPAA laws.

Helping to control infections and maintain a healthy lifestyle for patients and health care workers involves manual data assessments and data entry. The patient will be isolated, watched and treated. Clinical surveillance is also carried out and all treatment options provided. Health care workers will use PPE, different types of sterilizing, and surveillance if exposed to an infection.

It is required by health care laws and HIPAA that health care workers be certificated in treating, disposing, and maintaining infection control procedures. Taking classes through the CDC and the Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America will fulfill part of the requirements to be compliant with infection control rules. Learn more via the classes and about staying healthy by stopping infections today.

For more information, please visit our HIPAA Training Course website.

For more information, please visit our HIPAA Training Course website http://www.hipaaexams.com/hipaa-training.asp

Author Bio: For more information, please visit our HIPAA Training Course website.

Category: Wellness, Fitness and Diet
Keywords: HIPAA Training Course, Staying Healthy