Hygiene Practices Health care workers have inquired about flushing skin with a dilute solution of bleach following a bloodborne pathogen exposure. Currently there appears to have been no studies performed to determine whether this practice should be recommended or discouraged. The CDC currently recommends that the site should be washed with mild soap following an exposure. Harsh or abrasive soaps which may open fragile scabs or other sores should be avoided. Employees should wash hand immediately or as soon as feasible after removal of gloves.
Employees can later wash their hands with soap and water as soon as feasible.
Employees should wash body parts as soon as possible after skin contact with blood or other potentially infectious materials occur. Centers for Disease Control. Universal precautions for prevention of transmission of human immunodeficiency virus, hepatitis B virus and other bloodborne pathogens in health care settings. Surgical gloves as a mechanical barrier against Human immunodeficiency virus. 171-172 Zbitnew, AK Greer.