Skin penetrating injuries (SPI)
Procedures should be in place for the management of skin penetrating injuries (SPI) and other blood or body substance exposures.
Management of a SPI:
- encourage the wound to bleed by gently squeezing
- wash the area with cold running water and soap if available
- apply an antiseptic if available then cover the wound with a bandaid or dressing
When a person has exposure to blood or body substances:
- wash away the blood or body substance with soap and water. If water is not available then use a 60-90% alcohol based hand rinse or foam
- if the eyes are contaminated, rinse eyes while open with tap water or saline solution
- if blood gets into the mouth, spit it out and then repeatedly rinse with water
If exposed to blood or body substances the person should be referred for medical assessment as soon as possible. The doctor can then assess the degree of exposure and arrange blood tests and immunisation where appropriate. Access to professional counselling should also be available if needed.
Records of blood or body substance exposure should be documented and kept at the workplace. Records of exposure and treatment should be kept confidential.
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