Public Health Nursing Practice Exam

What is the key focus of the Bloodborne Pathogen Standard?

1. HIV prevention

2. Injury logging from sharps

3. Use of personal protective equipment

4. Preventing needle stick injuries

The correct answer is: Preventing needle stick injuries

The key focus of the Bloodborne Pathogen Standard is to prevent needle stick injuries. This standard was established by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to protect workers from exposure to bloodborne pathogens, which can be transmitted through various means, including needle stick injuries. The standard outlines specific requirements for employers to minimize the risk of exposure, including implementing safer medical devices, providing training to employees about handling needles and other sharp instruments safely, and ensuring the availability of appropriate personal protective equipment. While HIV prevention is an important aspect of the broader public health framework addressing bloodborne pathogens, the standard itself encompasses a wider range of potential pathogens, not just HIV. Additionally, while injury logging from sharps and the use of personal protective equipment are related practices, they are part of a larger strategy to reduce the risk of exposures and are not the primary focus of the standard. The essence of the Bloodborne Pathogen Standard lies in the proactive measures taken to avoid injuries that could lead to exposure to harmful pathogens, which is why the prevention of needle stick injuries stands out as the key focus.