Although the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) blood borne pathogen standard1 has been in place for years, many healthcare organizations continue to experience significant employee injuries involving blood borne pathogen exposures.

This RiskTopic explores blood borne pathogen exposures to home healthcare workers. It also offers guidance to help prevent injuries from blood and bodily fluids for those working in this environment.

Home healthcare

This RiskTopic discusses why clients in the home healthcare environment may become aggressive and/or violent. It also offers considerations on how to respond to combative behavior and how to prevent related employee injuries.

Home care workers may be particularly vulnerable to client or family aggression because they generally work alone in the home environment. It is important the home health caregiver knows how

Do you do these things when transporting your clients?

• Client’s seatbelt is secured properly
• Your seatbelt is secured properly
• ­Shoulder belt is not placed behind the client’s back or under the arm
• ­Client is secured in back seat where appropriate
• ­Driving distractions have been eliminated (such as cell phones)
• ­Vehicle walk-around inspection completed
• ­Vehicle engine, steering, lights, etc. are working properly
• ­Vehicle
  

Prior to hiring a new employee, ensure the job description and job application are specific and reflect the actual position. This can help reduce confusion for applicants and ensure you get applicants with the right level of experience and education.

Job applications should include the following questions:

• Full name
• Addresses for past 10 years
• Educational background
• Detailed employment history
• Reasons for leaving current