Clearing up process and infection control

The clearing up process and infection control

You must minimise the risk of infection from the outset when dealing with any incident. This applies to you, the casualty, and any bystanders. Similarly, when the casualty has been treated it is vital that all soiled dressings etc, are disposed of correctly.

• Wash your hands and wear disposable gloves
• Avoid coughing and sneezing over the wound, and avoid touching it
• Dispose of all soiled dressings, including gloves, in an appropriately marked (orange/yellow) plastic bag
• Dispose of sharp items, including syringes and needles, in a purpose made sharps bin and dispose of it appropriately. It may mean taking it to your local hospital for correct disposal

Rescuers should take appropriate safety precautions where feasible, especially if the casualty is known to have a serious infection such as tuberculosis (TB), severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (SARS) or coronavirus (COVID-19).