If accidentally exposed to bloodborne pathogens, the phlebotomist's first course of action should be to?

In the event of accidental exposure to bloodborne pathogens, the immediate priority is to reduce the risk of transmission of any potential infections. Washing the exposed site with soap and water is an essential first step in decontamination. This action helps to physically remove any pathogens that may have entered the skin and significantly decreases the likelihood of infection.

Prompt cleaning of the exposure site is critical because it can help to eliminate or lower the viral load if any pathogens were present. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines emphasize the importance of washing the exposed area as soon as possible after the incident. This step is crucial in first aid protocol for exposure to bloodborne pathogens.

Although reporting the incident and seeking medical attention are also important steps in the overall response protocol, they should follow the immediate action of washing the site. Checking the patient's blood type is not relevant in the context of immediate exposure management. Therefore, washing the site is the most critical first action to take in this scenario.