[Fancy Face]

Hi, wondering if anyone has been exposed to blood/ body fluids accidentally without gloves on? If so, after washing your hands 100 times, what do you do?

[Sweetooth EMT-P, RN]

I have been exposed to blood multiple time even been sprayed in the eye with other fluids a couple of times. The eye thing was a bit concerning because you can get HEP, but on your hands is only concerning if you have open wounds, but washing them is pretty much the best you can do. You usually learn to put on gloves sooner rather than later. If you are really concerned about it you can go to your occupational health department and speak with someone who can council you about the incident with regards to your chances of catching an infectous disease etc.


swtooth

[Fancy Face]

My concern is that my hands are chapped from the weather and frequent washing. I realize the risk is low with intact skin.

[Sweetooth EMT-P, RN]

The chances are probably pretty slim that you would get anything, however if you are this concerned I would talk to a health professional in your occupational health department that would be able to advise you further.

Swtooth

[Fancy Face]

Thanks, swtooth. This has probably happened to nurses everywhere.

[Merced]

Hi, and just to chime in: Some years ago, as a Home Health RN Case Mgr, I was irrigating a PICC line on a dying AIDS patient, when the tubing came apart & his blood splashed over my face & upper body. I rinsed my face/eyes for about 3 minutes & went through all the bureaucratic stuff afterwards.

I have to say, I think it affected my practice. Mostly, it was the response of the family (or lack of it) to my predicament (in their home with blood all over my white jacket). I understand that it's all about the patient, but I did feel the need at the time, for a little TLC. (But I'm a big baby, I guess).

Anyway, I want to tell you I understand your concern. I'm a firm believer in "you can't help anyone else unless you care about yourself first".