There are many different Barrier devices that are designed to protect a rescuer from disease transmission. Some are used specifically during resuscitation while others have a more general use. Protective barriers help to prevent unsafe contamination of body fluids such as bloodborne pathogens and saliva.
Infections such as viruses, bacteria and other microorganisms are carried in the blood and the three blood borne pathogens of most concern to Emergency Rescuers are;
- Hepatitis C virus
- Hepatitis B virus
- Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
Generally, an emergency responder who is helping someone in need of emergency care should place a barrier between yourself and any area of moisture or wet substance when in contact with the patient.
Some examples of barriers that used for protection during cpr include;
- Cpr mouth barrier, face mask & eye shields
- Resuscitation pocket mask and ventilation masks
- Disposable latex gloves and face shields
- Keychain barriers, microkey & cpr micro shield
- Wash your hands thoroughly with antibacterial soap
Fear of disease transmission is a common reason why layperson rescuers who are trained in cpr and first aid avoid taking action. However, it's important to note that there has never been a documented case of an injured or ill person infecting a first aid provider using a barrier device. As of this entry, no emergency care provider has ever contracted HIV or hepatitis through rescue breathing.
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