Complex, new directions for infection control

Article Abstract:

Safeguards against transmission of blood-borne pathogens rest on uncertain ground. Experts question the utility of universal precautions mandated by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration and The Centers for Disease Control. They claim that these precautions do not address the biggest problem: needle sticks. Technological innovations, such as self-sheathing needles and needleless IV connectors, are limited in their effectiveness because medical personnel do not have the time or the training to use them correctly.

Offices of health practitioners, not elsewhere classified, Offices & clinics of medical doctors, Blood-borne diseases, Bloodborne diseases

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New surveillance system tracks needlesticks, exposures

Article Abstract:

Dr Janine Jagger, a neurosurgery professor at the University of Virginia, has developed the Exposure Prevention Information Network (EPINet), a system which records and analyzes the incidence of needlesticks and other exposures to bodily fluids among health care personnel. Jagger aims to establish a uniform national surveillance database that could be used to design safer equipment. At present, hospitals use different systems to collect this information and many of these systems are encumbered by bureaucratic red tape.

HEALTH SERVICES, Medicine, Occupational health and safety, Occupational safety and health, Information services

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New guidelines prompt debate over TB control

Article Abstract:

Physicians are objecting to new Occupational Safety and Health Administration guidelines which recommend that health care workers wear industrial ventilator masks when treating victims of tuberculosis. Citing the 'surreal, dehumanizing' effect, doctors refuse to wear them. However, several unions applaud the guidelines, and medical experts will debate the use of masks at an Oct 1992 open meeting at the Centers for Disease Control in Atlanta, GA.

Health aspects, Prevention, Tuberculosis, Masks

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