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• Wash the affected area with soap and water (for needle sticks or skin exposure).
• Flush mucous membranes with sterile saline or water if exposure occurs to the eyes, nose, or
mouth.
• Report the exposure to the designated infection control officer immediately.

2. Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) and Follow-Up

• HIV Exposure: Initiate antiretroviral therapy (ART) within 72 hours to reduce transmission
risk.
• Hepatitis B Exposure: If unvaccinated, administer Hepatitis B Immune Globulin (HBIG) and
begin the Hepatitis B vaccine series.
• Hepatitis C Exposure: Conduct baseline and follow-up blood tests to monitor for
seroconversion.

Proper response and timely intervention minimize the risk of infection transmission after
occupational exposure.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Usage

1. Types of PPE in Orthopaedic Settings

PPE protects both healthcare workers and patients by reducing exposure to infectious agents.
Essential PPE includes:

• Gloves: Standard for handling blood, fluids, and contaminated surfaces.
• Face Masks and Respirators:
o Surgical masks prevent droplet transmission.
o N95 respirators are required for airborne infections (e.g., tuberculosis).
• Gowns and Aprons: Used for procedures involving bodily fluids and splashes.
• Eye Protection (Goggles or Face Shields): Shields the eyes from blood splatter and
aerosolized particles.

2. Best Practices for PPE Use

• Proper Donning and Doffing: Follow CDC guidelines to prevent contamination.
• Disposable vs. Reusable PPE: Use disposable PPE for high-risk exposure and properly
disinfect reusable gear.
• Storage and Disposal: Dispose of contaminated PPE in designated biohazard bins to prevent
cross-contamination.

Conclusion

Infection control and safety measures are critical in orthopaedic practice to protect patients
and healthcare providers from hospital-acquired infections, bloodborne pathogens, and