universal precaution

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usb

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i hear this universal precaution on the hamilton fire channel does anyone know what it stands for. thanks
 

jerk

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i hear this universal precaution on the hamilton fire channel does anyone know what it stands for. thanks

Universal Precautions...
to wear gloves, mask, gown, etc, protection from blood and other human body fluids.
Universal that is on all patient contact.

Probably if dispatch is saying it on certain calls, it is a code word to be extra careful, person has known case of AIDS/HIV or hepatitis.
 

Forts

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You will hear that from time to time on EMS calls as well. As newsalan mentioned, it's just a reminder for the crews responding that the patient on scene potentially has an infectious condition.... HIV, TB, Hep etc etc. Normally a responding crew will wear gloves and perhaps thats it... in this case they may use gloves and respiratory/face protection as well.
 

plaws

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Probably if dispatch is saying it on certain calls, it is a code word to be extra careful, person has known case of AIDS/HIV or hepatitis.

Exactly. If EMS personnel actually took "Universal" precautions, there would be no need to remind them. But they don't, so dispatchers point out which patients are known or suspected of being infections.
 

jerk

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Exactly. If EMS personnel actually took "Universal" precautions, there would be no need to remind them. But they don't, so dispatchers point out which patients are known or suspected of being infections.

Gloves are pretty much universal... can you imagine the reception of EMS personnel if they always had on each call, mask, gown, face shield or goggles... ;) Plus hats and booties.
 
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