What should you do if you are exposed to an infectious material?

When exposed to infectious material, it is crucial to report the incident and follow the facility’s post-exposure protocols. This approach is designed to ensure your safety and that of others by implementing appropriate medical evaluation and treatment as needed. Following established protocols helps to monitor any potential health risks and provides necessary protective measures to mitigate the impact of the exposure, such as blood tests, vaccinations, or other interventions.

Ignoring the situation can delay necessary actions that might prevent infection, while attempting to treat yourself could lead to improper care and exacerbate any potential injury. Leaving work immediately without reporting the incident fails to allow for proper assessment and can let the opportunity for necessary follow-up slip away. Thus, adherence to facility-specific protocols is essential for safeguarding your health and ensuring appropriate responses to potential infectious exposures.