Bloodborne Pathogen Exposures in a Developmental Center: 1993‐2000

In a developmental center, 257 potential bloodborne pathogen exposures (119 bites, 91 scratches, 30 sharps, 17 mucosal) occurred during 8 years (13,187 employee‐years and 6,980 resident‐ years). Of the residents, 9% were hepatitis B virus (HBV) surface antigen carriers. Serological follow‐up of expo...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Infection control and hospital epidemiology 2001-06, Vol.22 (6), p.382-385
Main Authors: Lohiya, Ghan‐Shyam, Tan‐Figueroa, Lilia, Lohiya, Sonia
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Antibodies
Antimicrobials
Biological and medical sciences
Blood-Borne Pathogens - isolation & purification
California
Concise Communications
Disease transmission
Epidemiology. Vaccinations
General aspects
Health Personnel - statistics & numerical data
Hepatitis
Hepatitis B - prevention & control
Hepatitis B - transmission
Hepatitis B virus
Hepatitis C - prevention & control
Hepatitis C - transmission
HIV
HIV Infections - prevention & control
HIV Infections - transmission
Humans
Immunization
Infection Control - methods
Infections
Infectious Disease Transmission, Patient-to-Professional - statistics & numerical data
Infectious diseases
Medical sciences
Needlestick injuries
Occupational exposure
Occupational Exposure - adverse effects
Pathogens
Physical trauma
Vaccination
Workers' compensation
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Summary:In a developmental center, 257 potential bloodborne pathogen exposures (119 bites, 91 scratches, 30 sharps, 17 mucosal) occurred during 8 years (13,187 employee‐years and 6,980 resident‐ years). Of the residents, 9% were hepatitis B virus (HBV) surface antigen carriers. Serological follow‐up of exposed, susceptible employees and residents identified no transmission of HBV, hepatitis C virus (HCV), or human immunodeficiency (HIV) virus. This outcome has been due primarily to hepatitis B immunization and low prevalences of HCV or HIV infections among the subjects. Proper follow‐up of all potential exposures is crucial to identify transmission promptly, allay anxiety, and prevent unwarranted workmen’s’ compensation claims. Measures are suggested to reduce exposure further (Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2001;22:000‐000).
ISSN:0899-823X
1559-6834
DOI:10.1086/501919