Occupational Health in a Clinical Setting

Question 1

Why are immunity screenings and vaccinations important?

Answer 1

We see many very young, elderly, immunosuppressed and pregnant people, so we must take precautions so we don’t put them at risk of infection

We also come into contact with blood and bodily fluids, as gloves can tear etc. BBV such as Hep B, Hep C and HIV can be transmitted by staff to patients via sharps or splash injuries

Question 2

What are healthcare students screened for?

Answer 2

• TB
• Measles
• Mumps
• Rubella
• Chicken pox

Question 3

How is Hep B protected against?

Answer 3

3 dose vaccine, and possible boosters or double doses if required

Question 4

How is protection against Hep C attained?

Answer 4

No vaccines available, but can be given referral to hepatology if contracted. They may offer antivirals such as pegylated interferon +/- ribavirin

Question 5

How is protection against HIV attained?

Answer 5

No vaccine, but if injured by needle, obtain an early post exposure prophylaxis (PEP) within 60 minutes as this reduces sero-conversions by more than 80%

Question 6

How should sharps/splash injuries be managed?

Answer 6

• Blood/body fluids splash to eyes/mouth - rinse well with lots of water.
• Sharps - Wash with soap + warm water, don’t suck or squeeze wound, encourage gentle bleeding by ‘milking’ the limb, apply waterproof dressing
• Identify source of patient (obtain details, advise patient that they may be contacted for blood tests - consent will be obtained,
• Contact OH department for telephone risk assessment
• Do not depend on self risk assessment of source patient, very unreliable
• Don’t delay reporting as PEP against HIV most effective within 1 hour
• Complete an incident form in accordance with the incident reporting policy

Question 7

What are some health conditions that can affect healthcare professionals?

Answer 7

• Physical conditions - seek help early
• Mental conditions - Depression, anxiety, stress, bipolar, psychosis, ADHD, personality disorder (again seek help early)

Question 8

What support is there for dyslexia?

Answer 8

• DSA
• Tutors

Question 9

What is the cause of occupational dermatitis?

Answer 9

Frequent hand washing
Glove allergy (latex, other chemicals in gloves)
Soaps and chemicals

Report early - May be able to identify the agent and provide you with alternative

Question 10

What support is available for medical students?

Answer 10

• Mentors and tutors
• Student counselling services
• Disabilities support services
• Primary care - GP
• Secondary care - e.g. hospital
• University psychiatrist