Bloodborne Pathogens in Childcare Safety Talk
Germs spreading from person to person is a concern in a childcare facility. The best way to protect against exposure to germs is to follow proper infection control procedures. To safeguard everyone’s health, adhere to the following good hygiene guidelines:
- Wear disposable latex gloves when changing diapers, assisting with toileting, administering first aid, cleaning and disposing of potentially contaminated materials.
- Wash hands for at least 20 seconds with warm water and soap after changing children, assisting with toileting, giving first aid, administering medications, before eating, preparing, serving food, and before going home. Proper hand washing may be the single greatest thing that can be done to protect against bloodborne pathogens.
- Sterilize changing tables after each use with a 10% bleach solution (or other approved disinfectant). Bleach water should be made fresh daily because it loses its potency after 24 hours.
- Dispose of diapers in a covered container and empty the bin after each round of diaper changes.
- Frequently wipe down tables, counters, and sinks with an approved disinfectant.
- Infant room employees should wear smocks or aprons.
- Teach children to dispose of their used facial tissues.
- Teach children to wipe themselves after toileting.
- When the class takes an assigned restroom break, clean bathrooms with the facilities approved disinfectant.
- Follow your facility’s policy regarding sick children.
Following these basic health and wellness guidelines will prevent spreading germs from person to person and keep everyone healthy. Developing good cleaning practices from the start will encourage cleaning and disinfecting to be a part of the facilities everyday routine.
