Risks for viral transmission:
(1) hollow needle sticks, especially when deep and/or with significant blood transfer
(2) knife cuts
(3) skin puncture by metal hardware or wire suture
(4) suture needle stick
(5) contamination of non-intact skin with blood or body fluids
(6) contamination of mucous membranes, intact skin and/or conjunctiva (possible)
(7) inhaled aerosols (possible)
Body coverings to reduce risk of exposure to blood and body fluid:
(1) double gloving
(2) gowning, using reinforced gowns when surgery is prolonged (> 2 hours) and/or increased blood loss (> 100 mL) is expected
(3) use of impermeable boots and sleeve covers, especially when surgery is prolonged (> 2 hours) and/or increased blood loss (> 100 mL) is expected
(4) face, mouth and eye covers appropriate to the procedure
Surgical practices to reduce exposure:
(1) prohibiting the recapping of hollow needles
(2) use of blunt needles and needleless operations
(3) handling knives and other sharp instruments by protocol
(4) restrictions in the use of wire sutures
Behavioral practices:
(1) health care workers with chronic viral infections should take steps to minimize exposure to co-workers and patients
(2) avoidance of physical and mental exhaustion
(3) vaccination against viral hepatitis B and other viral pathogens
