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Biohazard Information
All office personnel performing proficiency testing should read and understand the following statement:
Laboratory personnel should observe Universal Precautions when handling specimens (including patient, quality control and proficiency testing specimens). Universal Precautions is an approach to infection control; according to the concept, all human blood and body fluids should be handled as if known to be infectious for HIV, HBV and other bloodborne pathogens. Some proficiency testing specimens are derived from human blood/body fluids, and while they have tested negative for HbsAg and anti-HIV, they should be still considered potentially infectious. Specimens should be disposed of in biohazard containers.
All AAFP-PT kits are shipped in accordance with regulatory guidelines for shipping infectious material. Damage to packages during shipment should be reported to the AAFP-PT with a request for replacement specimens. United States Postal regulations prohibit return shipments of biohazardous materials. Unused specimens should be disposed of in biohazard containers. Please do not ship any of the specimens back to AAFP-PT.
Reporting a Laboratory Accident
Personnel exposed to potentially infectious specimens (i.e., cuts and splashes) should be reported to the AAFP-PT for evaluation and instructions concerning prophylaxis. CALL 800-274-7911 AND SELECT OPTION 3 FOR TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE.
Laboratory Accident Protocol
A skin exposure:
Wash the exposed area thoroughly with soap and running water
Report the exposure to the office contact
Complete the office’s exposure report form
A mucous membrane exposure (i.e., eyes or mouth):
Flush the exposed area immediately with water
If desired, flush the mouth with peroxide
Report the exposure to the office contact.
Complete the office’s exposure report form
The office should have a procedure for post-exposure evaluation and follow-up including:
Wash the exposed area thoroughly with soap and running water
Report the exposure to the office contact
Complete the office’s exposure report form
A mucous membrane exposure (i.e., eyes or mouth):
Flush the exposed area immediately with water
If desired, flush the mouth with peroxide
Report the exposure to the office contact.
Complete the office’s exposure report form
The office should have a procedure for post-exposure evaluation and follow-up including:
- Who to contact. An individual in the physician office (the Safety Officer) should have the responsibility of receiving notice of exposure. Also contact AAFP-PT (800-274-7911, option 3) if the exposure was to a proficiency testing specimen.
- How to fill out a written accident report. The physician office should have a format for recording the necessary information about how the accident occurred and the steps taken to reduce the exposure.
- The employee's rights and the policy for follow-up. (i.e., HIV testing as a follow-up to a needlestick).
- The process for testing and medical examinations.
- The recordkeeping process for the office.
Personnel should wear gloves at all times when handling specimens. If a specimen comes in contact with skin or mucous membranes, immediately flush the area with large amounts of water.
References: Protection of Laboratory Workers from Infectious Disease Transmitted by Blood, Body Fluids, and Tissue, 2nd ed., NCCLS, September 1991. (OSHA) Hazard Communication and Safety Program, a Heaton Manual.
Kit Information
