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Chapter 12: Infection Control and Safety in

Orthopaedic Practice

Introduction

Infection control and safety are fundamental to orthopaedic practice, ensuring patient well-
being, healthcare worker protection, and compliance with regulatory standards.
Orthopaedic procedures frequently involve open wounds, surgical interventions, and invasive
medical devices, which increase the risk of hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) and exposure
to bloodborne pathogens. Strict adherence to infection control protocols reduces surgical site
infections (SSIs), prevents disease transmission, and enhances patient outcomes.

Orthopaedic technologists must be proficient in universal precautions, sterile technique,
biohazard waste management, and personal protective equipment (PPE) usage to minimize
infection risks. Additionally, understanding and complying with Occupational Safety and
Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines is essential for maintaining a safe healthcare
environment.

This chapter explores the critical aspects of infection prevention and control, including OSHA
regulations, sterile field maintenance, biohazard handling, bloodborne pathogen exposure
management, and appropriate PPE selection and usage. Mastering these principles ensures
the highest level of safety, efficiency, and patient care in orthopaedic settings.

Universal Precautions and OSHA Guidelines

1. Overview of Universal Precautions

Universal precautions refer to infection control strategies designed to prevent the
transmission of bloodborne pathogens (HIV, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C) and other infectious
diseases in healthcare settings. These precautions assume that all blood, body fluids, secretions,
and excretions (except sweat) contain potentially infectious agents.

Key Universal Precautions:

• Hand Hygiene: Frequent and thorough handwashing with soap and water or alcohol-based
hand sanitizers.
• Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Gloves, masks, gowns, and eye protection when
handling potentially infectious materials.
• Safe Handling of Sharps: Never recapping needles, using puncture-resistant sharps containers,
and immediately disposing of used needles and blades.
• Proper Disinfection of Equipment and Surfaces: Using EPA-approved disinfectants to clean
orthopaedic instruments and treatment areas.