Infectious Agent Exposure Protocol

Exposure to Human Blood, Body Fluids and Sharps

What to do in the event of exposure to human blood/body fluid:

  1. IMMEDIATELY remove contaminated gloves, clothes, etc.
  2. For mucous membranes (e.g., eyes, nose, mouth), IMMEDIATELY flush with large amounts of water for 10-15 minutes.
  3. For a sharps injury, allow bleeding for 1-2 minutes. IMMEDIATELY wash area with soap and water or alcohol-based hand rub and cover with a dressing.
  4. IMMEDIATELY report the incident to the charge nurse or preceptor and call 780-401-2669 if at an Alberta Health Services (AHS) facility. At Covenant Health, or any other facility, contact the charge nurse or preceptor. This is at all hours and you will be advised what protocol to follow.
  5. Complete the University of Alberta EHS Human Blood/Body Fluid Exposure Report and WCB Workers Report on the Environment, Health & Safety website. Click on Incident/Injury link and provide to the FoMD office to be forwarded to the EHS office and Human Resources.
  6. The University Health Centre (780-492-2612) will provide follow-up conselling and testing, as necessary
  7. For additional help, contact:
    • PARA Hotline: 780-432-1753
    • Alberta Medical Association: 1-877-767-4637
    • Learner Advocacy & Wellness: 780-492-3092
    • Occupational Health: 780-492-5378
    • Sharon Knight: sharon.knight@ualberta.ca

Additional Resources