2 2 S U P P L E M E N T T O O U T P A T I E N T S U R G E R Y M A G A Z I N E M A Y 2 0 1 5
Answer: d
OSHA requires that work surfaces be cleaned with an "appropriate disinfec-
tant." That wide category includes EPA-registered antimicrobial products
such as tuberculocides, sterilants and products registered against HIV or hep-
atitis B. Any of these products are considered effective as long as you use
them according to manufacturers' instructions, and the surfaces you're clean-
ing aren't contaminated with agents that require a higher level of disinfection.
It's important to note that products registered by the EPA as HIV-effective are
not necessarily effective against tuberculosis or hepatitis B. When choosing a
disinfectant, find one that's active against all of these viruses.
5. Where should you look for special instructions for
decontaminating surfaces soiled with body fluid
contaminated with HIV or hepatitis B?
a. in AORN guidelines
b. on the EPA's website
c. on the disinfectant's label
d. there are no special instructions for these cases
Answer: c
For patients infected with HIV or hepatitis B, OSHA recommends you follow
special instructions listed on the disinfectant. These instructions are printed
on the labels of EPA-approved disinfectants under the header "Special
Instructions for Cleaning and Decontamination Against HIV and Hepatitis B of
Surfaces/Objects Soiled with Blood/Body Fluids."
In this this section several instructions are listed, including:
• personal protective equipment must be worn during the task;
• all blood must be cleaned thoroughly before applying the disinfectant;
