Bloodborne pathogen exposures in a developmental center: 1993-2000.
In a developmental center, 257 potential bloodborne pathogen exposures (119 bites, 91 scratches, 30 sharps injuries, 17 mucosal breaks) occurred during 8 years (13,187 employee-years and 6,980 resident-years). Of the residents, 9% were hepatitis B virus (HBV) surface antigen carriers. Serological follow-up of exposed, susceptible employees and residents identified no transmission of HBV, hepatitis C virus (HCV), or human immunodeficiency (HIV) virus. This outcome has been due primarily to hepatitis B immunization and low prevalences of HCV or HIV infections among the subjects. Proper follow-up of all potential exposures is crucial to identify transmission promptly, allay anxiety, and prevent unwarranted workmen's compensation claims. Measures are suggested to reduce exposure further.
Lohiya
G S
GS
Fairview Developmental Center, Costa Mesa, California 92626, USA.
Tan-Figueroa
L
L
Lohiya
S
S
D017848:Blood-Borne Pathogens / Q000302:isolation & purification; D002140:California; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000635:transmission*; D006282:Health Personnel / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D006509:Hepatitis B / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000635:transmission*; D006526:Hepatitis C / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000635:transmission*; D006801:Humans; D017053:Infection Control / Q000379:methods; D017758:Infectious Disease Transmission, Patient-to-Professional / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D016273:Occupational Exposure / Q000009:adverse effects*