If you work in the field of pharmacy and have to handle blood and other infection-prone materials, then bloodborne pathogens training and certification are vital for you. A bloodborne pathogen course for pharmacists is designed to help you prepare to deal with the health issues that might occur while caring for others and the potential harm the microscopic world might do.
In an online board-approved bloodborne pathogen course for pharmacists, you will discover practical strategies for training and preparing for the bacteria and infections you might encounter in the workplace. If exposed to bloodborne pathogens, you will be ready to lessen the likelihood of disease transmission and safeguard others—including clients and coworkers—from potential illness. Keep reading as we dive deep into the details further.
Types of bloodborne pathogens
Bloodborne pathogens are microscopic organisms, such as viruses or bacteria, that travel through blood and can infect humans. The three most prevalent bloodborne pathogens are:
- Hepatitis B (HBV)
- Hepatitis C (HCV)
- Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
Other bloodborne pathogens include
- Brucellosis
- Syphilis
- Malaria
Who needs bloodborne pathogen training and certification?
The federal OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens regulation (29 CFR 1910.1030) outlines precautions that must be taken to protect workers from the health risks associated with exposure to blood and other potentially infectious materials (OPIM). They also lower the risk of such exposure.
All employees who might be “reasonably expected” to come in direct or indirect contact with blood or other potentially infectious materials (OPIM) while performing their assigned job duties must take the bloodborne pathogen training and certification.
Jobs that strictly require bloodborne pathogen training and certification are:
- Physicians
- Nurses
- Medical Students
- Healthcare Workers
- Paramedics
- Firemen
- Policemen
- Emergency Responders
- Teachers
- School Staff
- Tattoo Artists
- Cleaning/Janitorial Staff
What are the objectives of the bloodborne pathogen course for pharmacists?
- Determine the origins of bloodborne infections.
- Recognize the dangers of providing medical care where you might come in contact with blood.
- Learn the proper way to remove blood and blood-containing fluids from surfaces.
- Recognize the need to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) to stop the spread of bloodborne infections.
- Describe the spread of bloodborne infections.
- Learn how to use sharps safely to prevent contracting bloodborne diseases.
- Learn what to do if you are exposed.
- Develop a strong sense of accountability among participants to stop exposure to bloodborne infections in the future.
Can I get bloodborne pathogen certification online?
Yes, you can take bloodborne pathogen training online and earn the certification. All you need is an internet-enabled device like a laptop or computer.
The sign-up process is quite simple. When you sign up for an online bloodborne pathogen course, create a username and set a password. Log in and start your training. You can complete the course in several sessions and at your own pace. When you have to give the final exam, you allocate 15-20 minutes so you can focus your attention to the fullest.
The online Bloodborne Pathogens course is intended for people who run the risk of working in an environment where they could be exposed to blood or other body fluids. This course comprises the materials and knowledge required to safeguard you from exposure to blood or blood-containing products that you may come into contact with while performing your job and the people close to you.
During the training, staff members learn:
- How bloodborne infections spread
- How to prevent exposure
- What to do if they become infected during the training
Is online bloodborne pathogen training valid?
Yes, the online bloodborne pathogen training is valid for current employers and new employment opportunities. However, after completing this course, students should discuss workplace-specific policies and procedures with their employers. A certification for Bloodborne Pathogens training is awarded to those who successfully complete the course. The certification stands valid for one year.
Conclusion
After completing this course, you can actively contribute to lowering the transmission of bloodborne pathogens in the workplace. The likelihood of coming into contact with bloodborne infections is always present, even though different jobs may involve varying amounts of patient interaction.
