H1N1 Virus Reiterates Health Care Worker Safety Precautions

The recent spread of the H1N1 Virus (“swine flu”) is a reminder to all health care workers that there is never a good time to become lackadaisical with safety precautions.  The introduction of a new virus strain or spread of an existing one into the patient population, impacts every member of the health care workforce.

Phlebotomists are on the front lines of testing, taking patient blood samples and sending samples that test positive to the CDC for confirmation.  Medical imaging technicians screen for pneumonia and other signs of disease in respiratory infections such as the H1N1 virus.  Physician assistants help doctors with the inevitable surge of patients concerned about possible symptoms of virus or disease strain.   It is important during these times for all health care workers to brush up on proper hand washing techniques, use of barriers, handling of sharps, proper glove use and other universal precautions.

Universal precautions were developed in response to the AIDS outbreak of the 1980s. This standard medical practice requires that every health care worker coming in direct contact with patients, treat each patient as if they are infected with AIDS. The practice also extends to the possibility of Hepatitis infection and any other virus that may be transmitted through a patient’s bodily fluids.

As a nurse, I occasionally observed health care workers cutting corners when it came to the proper practice of universal precautions. For instance, I watched some home health aides and CNAs either wear the same pair of gloves when transitioning between patients or simply changes gloves without washing their hands in between.

As a health care student this may seem like a no-brainer: wash your hands, properly dispose of sharps, and wear gowns and masks when required. In the real world, however, under staffing and general work overload make it tempting to “forget” universal precautions and other safety precautions. Remember that you are not only gambling with your health and safety but also the well being of every patient and family member you come in contact with, including your own.