In the 1980s, the worldwide AIDS epidemic focused new attention on infection control procedures, particularly as they relate to bloodborne pathogens such as the virus that causes AIDS, HIV and the hepatitis B and C viruses. After intense study by both the CDC and OSHA, new recommendations and mandates were made that brought about many changes in healthcare practice to help prevent the spread of bloodborne infections.

This new 3-part series, Preventing Bloodborne Infections in Long Term Care, provides learners with an understanding of the pathogenicity of HIV, hepatitis B and hepatitis C, and strategies developed for the long term care environment to prevent their spread through work practice controls and engineering controls.

Infection control practices in healthcare have changed radically since the advent of HIV/AIDS and hepatitis C in the 1980s. While the hazards remain, changes in care practices and protective devices have improved the safety of healthcare professionals against bloodborne pathogens as never before.

This first of three programs on preventing bloodborne infections, describes the dangerous bloodborne viruses themselves and how they are transmitted.

After completing this course, the learner should be able to: