I was astounded to see a photo in the P. G. Citizen of a Northern Health registered nurse giving her nurse colleague a flu vaccination - without wearing required gloves! Her colleague also seems oblivious to everything but the upcoming sting of the needle.
Universal Precautions require the person giving a vaccination to wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Gloves should be made of latex, rubber or other impervious materials. Replace PPE that is torn or punctured. Remove PPE before leaving work station. Hands should be washed immediately after removal of gloves.
Needles must be disposed of in labeled sharps containers only. Improperly disposed needles can injure housekeepers, custodians and other staff.
Such are the Universal Precautions to prevent the transmission of blood-borne pathogens.
James Van Doren
Prince George
