The Human Side: Bloodborne Pathogens in Schools

Abstract:
This video, which is designed to supplement more comprehensive training in universal precautions, provides true-life accounts from health care workers who were infected with bloodborne pathogens. The two individuals who were infected with the hepatitis B virus (HBV) are each recovering, although they discuss how their infections continue to affect their lives. The third health care worker, who contracted HIV, died shortly before the video was released. The video notes that HBV is actually a much greater threat than HIV, and it focuses on things individuals and schools can do to reduce the likelihood of infection. The video describes in some detail safe work practices, personal protective equipment, engineering controls (such as properly designed containers for waste disposal), housekeeping measures, and the HBV vaccine. Viewers are encouraged to familiarize themselves with their school’s policies on these issues. The video’s intentions "to personalize the information from other universal precautions training and emphasize the need for application" are good, although the ominous background music makes this point in a somewhat heavy-handed manner. Much of the same information is provided in "Protection in Educational Environments: Bloodborne Pathogens."


Date Published: 1/1/1995

Comments:
The video is 22 minutes long.

Location Code: 165