How should a spill of blood or bodily fluids be cleaned safely?

Prepare for the Nurse Aide I Module B – Infection Prevention Test. Leverage multiple choice questions, detailed flashcards, and comprehensive explanations. Ensure your readiness for the exam!

Multiple Choice

How should a spill of blood or bodily fluids be cleaned safely?

When a spill of blood or bodily fluids occurs, protecting yourself first is essential. Put on the proper PPE, including gloves and any additional protection needed for the amount and location of the spill. Absorb the liquid with disposable towels to control splashes and contain the spill. Then clean the area with detergent to remove soils, and follow with a disinfectant that is EPA-registered and appropriate for bloodborne pathogens, ensuring the surface stays visibly wet for the product’s required contact time. Place all contaminated materials in a biohazard waste bag, seal it, and dispose of it according to facility policy. Remove PPE safely and perform hand hygiene immediately after cleanup. Wiping with plain water won’t reliably remove pathogens, using household bleach without gloves risks skin exposure and improper technique, and ignoring the spill creates ongoing exposure risk.

When a spill of blood or bodily fluids occurs, protecting yourself first is essential. Put on the proper PPE, including gloves and any additional protection needed for the amount and location of the spill. Absorb the liquid with disposable towels to control splashes and contain the spill. Then clean the area with detergent to remove soils, and follow with a disinfectant that is EPA-registered and appropriate for bloodborne pathogens, ensuring the surface stays visibly wet for the product’s required contact time. Place all contaminated materials in a biohazard waste bag, seal it, and dispose of it according to facility policy. Remove PPE safely and perform hand hygiene immediately after cleanup.

Wiping with plain water won’t reliably remove pathogens, using household bleach without gloves risks skin exposure and improper technique, and ignoring the spill creates ongoing exposure risk.

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