After properly washing the area exposed to infected bodily fluid, the next steps are:
- Apply a skin antiseptic to the cleaned area and cover with a clean dressing or bandage if there is a wound or puncture.
- Immediately report the exposure to a supervisor, healthcare provider, or person responsible for managing exposures. Do not decide on your own whether more care is needed.
- Seek medical evaluation promptly from a qualified healthcare professional for assessment, possible lab tests, and to determine if post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) or vaccinations are needed. Early treatment is crucial to reduce infection risk, especially for bloodborne viruses like HIV, hepatitis B, or C.
- Document the exposure details, including how it happened, what fluids were involved, and the site of exposure.
- Follow your workplace or health authority protocols for exposure management, including ongoing monitoring and follow-up testing as advised.
In short, after washing the exposed area well with soap and water, apply antiseptic if needed, cover the wound, report immediately, and get medical evaluation for further care and possible preventive treatment. Early and proper response is essential to minimize infection risk from infected bodily fluids.