What guidelines should be followed when working with human blood and body fluids?

When working with human blood and body fluids, it is essential to prioritize hygiene to prevent the spread of infections. Washing your hands immediately after handling blood or bodily fluids is a crucial step in maintaining safety and preventing contamination. This practice helps to remove any pathogens that may have come into contact with your hands, thereby protecting both the healthcare worker and the patients they care for.

Handwashing is typically more effective than using hand sanitizer when it comes to removing certain types of microorganisms, especially those that may be present in blood or body fluids. While hand sanitizer can be a useful tool for hand hygiene, it is not a substitute for proper washing with soap and water, particularly after exposure to potentially infectious materials.

This practice aligns with standard infection control protocols, which emphasize that hand hygiene should always be performed after contact with blood or fluids to ensure a safe working environment.