Blood Borne Pathogens - 30 Mins - EMT B

Pathogens are microorganisms that can cause infection or disease in a host organism. This includes viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites. They invade the host's body and can disrupt normal bodily functions, leading to illness. Toxins are substances produced by pathogens that can cause harm to the host. Antigens are molecules that can trigger an immune response in the host, while antibodies are proteins produced by the immune system to help fight off pathogens. Therefore, the correct answer is pathogens, as they are the organisms that cause infection.

The correct answer is personal protective equipment. This term refers to the various items such as gloves, eye shields, masks, and gowns that are used to protect individuals from potential hazards, such as viruses, bacteria, or chemicals. These items are designed to minimize the risk of exposure and transmission of diseases or infections, making them an essential part of ensuring the safety and well-being of healthcare professionals and other individuals in high-risk environments.

It is important to evaluate scene safety prior to entering the scene because by doing so, you can determine what personal protective equipment you will need to ensure your safety. Additionally, evaluating scene safety allows you to assess the likely mechanism of injury, which can help you provide appropriate care and treatment. Lastly, by evaluating scene safety, you can identify if any additional resources, such as additional personnel or equipment, may be needed to effectively manage the situation.

When there is a high probability of blood splatter, precautions should be taken to protect oneself from potential contamination. Wearing gloves is important to prevent direct contact with blood and other bodily fluids. Protective eyewear is necessary to shield the eyes from any splashes or splatters that could potentially cause harm. Masks are used to cover the mouth and nose, preventing the inhalation of any airborne particles. However, nose plugs are not typically used as a precautionary measure in these situations, as they do not provide any significant protection against blood splatter.

External bleeding that presents a danger to you can occur from any of the mentioned blood vessels - artery, vein, or capillary. Arteries carry oxygenated blood at high pressure, so bleeding from an artery can be severe and life-threatening. Veins carry deoxygenated blood, and while bleeding from a vein may not be as rapid or dangerous as arterial bleeding, it still requires attention. Capillaries are the smallest blood vessels and can also cause bleeding, although it is usually less severe. Therefore, all of the mentioned blood vessels can present a danger if they are bleeding externally.

A NIOSH-approved HEPA or N-95 respirator is recommended when caring for a patient suspected of having tuberculosis because tuberculosis is an airborne disease that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. HEPA or N-95 respirators are designed to filter out at least 95% of airborne particles, including the bacteria that cause tuberculosis. Using these respirators can help protect healthcare workers from inhaling the bacteria and reduce the risk of contracting the disease.

Confidential patient information can only be released in certain situations. One of these situations is when other healthcare professionals require the information to provide ongoing care to the patient. Another situation is when state law mandates the reporting of specific incidents like rape or abuse. Additionally, if a legal subpoena is issued, the information must be disclosed. Therefore, the correct answer is "all of the above" as all of these scenarios allow for the release of confidential patient information.

As an EMT-B, your first responsibility is to keep yourself safe. This is because you cannot effectively help the patient if you are injured or in danger. By ensuring your own safety, you can then proceed to provide the necessary care and assistance to the patient.