What is the recommended practice for handling blood or body fluid spills?

• A. Ignore spills if small.
• B. Wear PPE, contain spill, use appropriate disinfectant, clean, and dispose of contaminated materials safely.
• C. Use water only to wipe.
• D. Notify client and continue.

Answer: (B)

Handling blood or body fluid spills follows universal precautions to prevent exposure to pathogens. The best approach is to don the proper PPE, such as gloves and eye protection, before touching the spill. Then contain it to stop it from spreading, apply an appropriate disinfectant that is labeled for use on bloodborne pathogens, and allow it to remain wet for the required contact time. After disinfection, clean up the materials used to absorb or remove the spill and dispose of all contaminated items in a sealed biohazard bag or container. Finally, remove PPE and perform hand hygiene. This sequence ensures the area is decontaminated and that both the practitioner and client are protected.

Ignoring spills is unsafe and violates universal precautions. Using water alone does not disinfect; it won’t kill pathogens. Notifying the client and continuing without proper cleanup also risks exposure and spread.