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Bloodborne Pathogen Exposures in a Developmental Center 1993–2000

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  02 January 2015

Ghan-Shyam Lohiya ,
Lilia Tan-Figueroa  and
Sonia Lohiya
Ghan-Shyam Lohiya*
Affiliation:
Fairview Developmental Center, Costa Mesa, California, and Revelle College, University of California at San Diego, La Jolla, California
Lilia Tan-Figueroa
Affiliation:
Fairview Developmental Center, Costa Mesa, California, and Revelle College, University of California at San Diego, La Jolla, California
Sonia Lohiya
Affiliation:
Fairview Developmental Center, Costa Mesa, California, and Revelle College, University of California at San Diego, La Jolla, California
*
Fairview Development Center, 2501 Harbor Blvd, Costa Mesa, CA 92626
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Abstract

In a developmental center, 257 potential bloodborne pathogen exposures (119 bites, 91 scratches, 30 sharps injuries, 17 mucosal breaks) occurred during 8 years (13,187 employee-years and 6,980 resident-years). Of the residents, 9% were hepatitis B virus (HBV) surface antigen carriers. Serological follow-up of exposed, susceptible employees and residents identified no transmission of HBV, hepatitis C virus (HCV), or human immunodeficiency (HIV) virus. This outcome has been due primarily to hepatitis B immunization and low prevalences of HCV or HIV infections among the subjects. Proper follow-up of all potential exposures is crucial to identify transmission promptly, allay anxiety, and prevent unwarranted workmen's compensation claims. Measures are suggested to reduce exposure further.

Type
Concise Communication
Information
Infection Control & Hospital Epidemiology , Volume 22 , Issue 6 , June 2001 , pp. 382 - 385
Copyright
Copyright © The Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America 2001

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