Universal Precautions For
Body Fluid and Bloodborne Pathogens

Viruses that cause AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), Viral Hepatitis, and other diseases can be carried in blood and body fluids. Universal Precautions are measures that are taken to prevent exposure and infection from bloodborne pathogens.

In cases of accident or emergency, any person’s blood and/or body fluids should be handled as if infectious.

What do we mean by "Infectious"?

"Infectious" means that a virus can get into your body if you are exposed to it. You must be exposed through one of your mucous membranes (examples are your eyes, nose or mouth), or an opening in your skin’s surface (such as a cut, puncture wound, or skin condition, i.e. eczema).

Universal Precautions Apply to the Following:

Blood is the most important body fluid to avoid.

Other potentially infectious materials must also be handled appropriately. These include:

  • Body fluid that is visibly contaminated with blood.
  • Body fluids in situations where it is difficult or impossible to know if they have been contaminated with blood.
  • Semen or vaginal fluids.

What Kinds of Things May Put You At Risk?

  • An occupation where you may be exposed to body fluids (Examples are emergency medical technicians, housekeepers, first responders, and teachers.)
  • Injury that causes you or your co-workers to be cut, thus exposed to blood (Examples are paper cuts, micro fiche cuts, and staples in finger.)
  • Failing to use proper precautions when helping someone who is injured or losing body fluids (This could be anyone.)

This information was produced through a cooperative agreement with the Centers for Disease Control, and has been reviewed and approved by the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction HIV Materials Review Panel, 7/92.