Final answer:
HBV transmission risk in health-care settings can be reduced by vaccination, use of PPE, proper handling and disposal of needles, immediate skin washing after exposure, post-exposure treatment, disinfection of surfaces, and strict testing of blood products.
Step-by-step explanation:
Preventing HBV Transmission in Health-Care Settings
The last reported transmission of HBV (Hepatitis B virus) transmission from Dental Health Care Personnel (DHCP) to a patient was in the 1980s. Since the introduction of vaccination recommendations for health-care workers by the CDC in 1982, rates of HBV infections have declined. However, there remains a small risk for infection, and various strategies can be employed to minimize this risk further.
- Vaccination against HBV is crucial and should be offered to all health-care workers with potential exposure to infectious materials.
- Using Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as gloves and face protection when in contact with blood or body fluids.
- Employing disposable syringes and needles to avoid reuse and potential contamination.
- Following protocols for washing exposed skin with soap and water immediately after contact with body fluids.
- Utilizing Post-exposure prophylaxis with hepatitis B immunoglobulin (HBIG) and vaccination if exposure occurs.
- Disinfecting surfaces with solutions such as 10% bleach as recommended by the CDC.
- Strict testing of blood products to prevent transmission through blood transfusions.
These measures collectively reduce the risk of HBV transmission in health-care settings significantly.