Use SAFER methods for fewer exposures 

Occupational exposure to blood and body fluids (BBF) is a serious concern for healthcare workers. BBF exposures present a major risk factor for transmitting infectious disease, such as Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and HIV. It is estimated that every year one out of 10 healthcare workers in the U.S. suffers a BBF splash, needle stick or sharp injury.

At Yale New Haven Health, Employee Safety reminds employees to use SAFER Practice Methods to reduce exposures to bloodborne pathogens:

• S - Select the correct equipment and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to reduce splash and sharp exposure
• A - Ask clarifying questions if you are unfamiliar with the equipment or have a question about its use
• F - Focus on the task at hand, use your HRO behaviors of Attention to Detail and Situational Awareness
• E - Execute the task carefully and correctly. If there is a safety on the device, engage the safety correctly
• R - Remove the sharp immediately and dispose of it properly. 

“A common theme discovered in the investigation process after a splash has occurred is that the employee may not have anticipated a splash and therefore, they were not wearing eye protection,” said Alison Kostopoulos, BH employee safety specialist. “Remember that splashes can occur during procedures which are not commonly thought to be splash prone, like Point of Care testing and management of IV and other lines.”

YNHHS has a non-retaliatory policy when employees report an exposure. The “No Blame, No Shame” exposure reporting policy encourages staff to report exposures through a simple process on Employee Self Service (ESS). Once an incidence is reported, an employee safety specialist conducts an investigation to understand the cause of the exposure, and together with the employee, develops an action plan to help avoid future exposures. 

“The overarching theme is to promote a culture of safety, which is not just a slogan but a practice embraced by our health system,” added Kostopoulos.