What it means
OSHA was created by a 1970 law. In health care, its best-known rule is the Bloodborne Pathogens Standard, which requires employers to protect workers from blood and body fluids: personal protective equipment, safer needles and sharps containers, the hepatitis B vaccine offered free, training, and a plan for exposures. It also covers workplace violence, safe lifting and hazardous chemicals.
For the nurse
OSHA protects the worker; infection-control rules from the CDC protect clients and workers. Know where your unit's sharps containers, eye wash station and safety data sheets are, and report a needlestick at once.
At a glance
| Abbreviations | OSHA |
|---|---|
| Spanish | Administración de Seguridad y Salud Ocupacional |
| Also written | OSHA |
Related terms
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
The United States government agency that studies disease and sets national guidance on preventing and controlling it.
hepatitis B virus
The virus that causes hepatitis B, an infection of the liver.
glove
A covering for the hand worn to protect the wearer and the client from germs, body fluids and chemicals.