Animal exposure surveillance: a model program.
In 1996, the Institute of Laboratory Animal Resources published guidelines for a mandatory occupational health program for personnel who work in animal facilities. This article details the development and implementation of an animal exposure surveillance program (AESP) at a large educational research institution. Prior to initiation of an AESP, the occupational health practitioner must develop a database and health inventory to allow collection, storage, and communication of pertinent employee and animal information; review the health inventory with each employee; administer necessary vaccinations; and investigate any stated sensitivities. Educating employees about precautions to take when working with animals and the need to notify the occupational health nurse immediately after exposure is vital. Animal-related injuries and diseases, with protocols for evaluation and treatment, are discussed.
Lang
Yolanda C
YC
University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
D017750:Animal Technicians; D000818:Animals; D002415:Cats; D002417:Cattle; D003625:Data Collection / Q000379:methods*; D016208:Databases, Factual; D004285:Dogs; D006266:Health Education; D006301:Health Services Needs and Demand; D006801:Humans; D017053:Infection Control / Q000379:methods*; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D007756:Laboratory Animal Science; D007757:Laboratory Infection / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000517:prevention & control; D037141:Mandatory Programs / Q000458:organization & administration; D008487:Medical History Taking; D051379:Mice; D024802:Nurse's Role; D009730:Nursing Assessment; D016273:Occupational Exposure / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D016272:Occupational Health / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D009785:Occupational Health Nursing / Q000458:organization & administration; D011159:Population Surveillance / Q000379:methods*; D011323:Primates; D012756:Sheep; D014611:Vaccination / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D017132:Workplace