Managing Workplace Bloodborne Pathogen Exposures

Workplace safety is paramount for every organization, and potential bloodborne pathogen exposure incidents are no exception. They are among the most significant occupational risks employees face. For this reason, timely treatment for such exposures is essential to prevent transmitting diseases like HIV and contain costs. CorVel has a dedicated clinical team of nurses and pharmacists who play a crucial role in minimizing the impact of these exposures and ensuring that employees receive the necessary care promptly.

Gold Standard Recommendations

CorVel’s clinical team has extensive knowledge of the gold standard recommendations for employers to manage bloodborne pathogen exposure in the workplace. These recommendations are based on the latest medical guidelines and best practices. The ultimate goal, when incidents occur, is to prevent HIV transmission to employees by ensuring timely treatment with approved antiretrovirals.

Monitoring Pharmacy First-Fill Dispensing Reports

One of the critical steps in CorVel’s approach to handling workplace exposure incidents is the diligent monitoring and daily review of the pharmacy’s first-fill dispensing report of post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) medications. Experienced pharmacy nurses and pharmacists review each claim’s available incident documentation to ascertain the nature and extent of the exposure. This meticulous review helps in understanding the severity of the situation and allows for accurate decision-making in terms of treatment recommendations.

Verifying Recommended Antiretroviral Regimens

Once the documentation is thoroughly reviewed, the clinical team verifies whether a fully recommended antiretroviral regimen was paid for and dispensed to the affected employee. Antiretroviral medications are a crucial component of post-exposure treatment, and ensuring their availability is of utmost importance. Any discrepancies found during this process are promptly addressed, and communication is established with the respective pharmacy to clarify and rectify the situation.

Timely Availability of Post-Exposure Medications

CorVel’s high-touch model ensures that the ordered post-exposure medications are made available to the injured worker promptly and in appropriate quantities. Time is of the essence when managing potential blood-borne pathogen exposure, and any delays in treatment could have severe consequences. By adhering to published guidelines, CorVel’s clinical team minimizes the risk of disease transmission.

Effective Communication with Adjusters

Effective communication is essential for a coordinated response and to facilitate the necessary actions from the adjuster’s end. The clinical team promptly verifies whether an adjuster is aware of the exposure claim and, if not, provides status updates on the dispensed medications to ensure that all parties involved are on the same page, allowing for a timely resolution of the claim.

CorVel’s clinical team’s proactive approach to handling bloodborne pathogen exposure incidents ensures employees receive timely, appropriate treatment. This not only protects the health and well-being of employees, but also helps reduce the potential impact on the organization. Through effective communication and collaboration, CorVel’s clinical team plays a vital role in safeguarding workplaces and contributing to an overall safer work environment. For more detailed information on reducing exposure, download our FAQ document here.