Sharps Safety and OSHA Compliance: Staying on the Right Side of the Law
Despite legislation, regulation and stepped-up oversight and education campaigns by public and private sectors, needlesticks and other sharps-related injuries persist, although with variance in the rates depending on the healthcare setting. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)'s Bloodborne Pathogens Standard outlines what employers must do to protect workers who are occupationally exposed to blood or other potentially infectious materials (OPIM), and on Nov. 6, 2000, President Bill Clinton signed into law the bloodborne pathogens standard (BBP) by way of the Needlestick Safety and Prevention Act.
An Ounce of Prevention: Managing Influenza and COVID-19 in Long-Term Care
September 10th 2024As influenza and COVID-19 circulate in long-term care facilities, prompt testing, isolation precautions, and antiviral treatments are crucial for preventing outbreaks and protecting vulnerable residents.
Maximizing Value: The Hidden Benefits of Preventing Hospital-Acquired Pneumonia Through Oral Hygiene
September 10th 2024Hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP) is a significant infection prevention concern, leading to high patient mortality, increased health care costs, and ICU usage. Oral hygiene is an effective preventive measure.
The Evolution of Health Care Environmental Hygiene: A Long Overdue Shift in Infection Control
September 5th 2024This new column, Clean Hospital with Alexandra Peters, PhD, explores advancements in health care environmental hygiene, highlighting its growing recognition as a key component of infection prevention and honoring pioneers like Professor Stephanie Dancer.
