Texas Class A Barber Written ExamSanitation, Disinfection, and SafetyMedium
A barber is exposed to a client's blood through a small cut on their finger. After first aid, what is the NEXT crucial step according to bloodborne pathogen exposure control plans?
- AImmediately wash the exposed area thoroughly with soap and water and report the incident.
- BContinue working, being careful with the cut.
- CTake a preventative antibiotic and monitor for symptoms.
- DApply a strong disinfectant to the cut and cover it with a bandage.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Immediately wash the exposed area thoroughly with soap and water and report the incident.
Immediate washing of the exposed area and reporting the incident are critical steps in any bloodborne pathogen exposure control plan. This allows for proper documentation, medical evaluation, and potential post-exposure prophylaxis.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Continuing to work without proper reporting and evaluation is unsafe and against exposure protocols.
- C. Antibiotics are not effective against bloodborne viruses (like HBV, HCV, HIV), and medical evaluation is needed before any prophylaxis.
- D. While decontamination is good, applying strong disinfectants directly to an open wound is not recommended and can cause tissue damage; reporting is also missed.
Bloodborne Pathogen Exposure Protocol
The systematic steps to follow immediately after an exposure incident involving blood or other potentially infectious materials.
- Immediate wash with soap and water
- Report incident to supervisor
- Seek medical evaluation
- Documentation is essential
Memory trick: Wash, Report, Evaluate, Don't Hesitate