ARC-PA Standard A3.05 a/b/c
Students should always adhere to OSHA guidelines for universal precautions.
The students receive instruction on methods of prevention for the exposure to infectious and environmental hazards prior to any educational exposures (didactic and clinical) that would place them at risk. Training includes but is not limited to: the proper selection and use of protective equipment (PPE), donning and doffing procedures, hand hygiene, and prevention of cross-contamination. In addition, students complete mask fit testing to ensure proper respiratory protection in accordance with OSHA requirements.
Note that any student exposed to blood or body fluid must report the incident to the preceptor or instructor immediately following the exposure for instruction and advisement.
Exposure incidents can lead to infection from the Hepatitis B and C virus (HBV/HCV) or the Human Immunodeficiency virus (HIV) which causes AIDS. The most obvious exposure incident is a needle stick, but any specific eye, mouth, mucous membrane, non-intact skin, or parenteral contact with blood or other potentially infectious material is considered an exposure incident and should be reported immediately.
The student should stop any procedure that they are engaged in should an exposure occur. If the preceptor is not available, the incident must be reported to the Chief of Service under which the student is studying. In any event, the Program Director or Clinical Coordinator is also to be notified immediately. The student must submit an account of the exposure on a report form provided by the program and available to the student on EXXAT®. Information must include: date and time of exposure, any protective garments worn by the student, the type of exposure, anatomical location of exposure and condition of exposed skin or mucous membrane, witnesses to the exposure, and any other pertinent information. This form is to be signed and dated by the student and emailed or provided to their PA program office.
The student will adhere to the exposure policies of the particular rotation site. The source should be assessed for HIV and Hepatitis B/C risk. It is the student's responsibility to follow up with their private physician for follow-up care and HIV testing as indicated and is financially responsible for any follow-up care including prophylactic medication.
Any student with an exposure incident, which occurs during the didactic phase or outside of the affiliation, but within the school curriculum, should also follow the above protocol.
The student is responsible for notifying the PA program administration or faculty of any accident that occurs while the student is on campus or at an affiliated institution resulting in ANY potential injury or property damage.
