Post-Exposure to Infectious and Environmental Hazards Protocol
Should an exposure to blood and/or other body fluid or a needle stick injury occur, the procedure for obtaining appropriate medical care is as follows:
When an exposure occurs:
- Remove soiled clothing and administer immediate aid, including washing skin, flushing eyes for 10-15 minutes, etc. Remove contact lenses if eyes are exposed.
- Notify the preceptor immediately. DO NOT DELAY. GET ASSISTANCE IMMEDIATELY.
- Immediately report to or contact the designated person/department at the clinical site to receive information and counseling regarding proper protocol and treatment for accidental exposure. In some cases, this might be the Employee Health or Occupational Health Services Department. PLEASE NOTE: Health care entities are not obligated to provide students with treatment all though some may do so. All UMES students are required to carry health insurance for the duration of the program.
- Should the clinical site not provide you with treatment, students should go to the closest Urgent Care, Family Doctor or Emergency Department for immediate treatment at their own expense. Student injuries are not work-related injuries and; therefore, not covered under Workman’s Compensation Laws.
Following an exposure, once the student has followed the clinical site’s protocol the affected students must contact the Clinical Education Director within 24 hours. The student must also complete the Student Exposure Form (See UMES Clinical Education Handbook) and follow the directions at the top of the form. Please complete the form as accurately and completely as possible. Subsequently, a UMES Accidental Personal Injury Report must be completed by the CED or PMS, and is filed in the PA office for tracking, with a copy sent to UMES Conduct Administrator.
Insurance: The student’s insurance identification card should be shown when medical evaluation is needed. Students will be financially responsible for all costs incurred during compliance with this policy. (See Student Health Policy).
