HHS Office of Civil Rights (OCR) Warns: Don’t Forget About Physical Security
In their most recent newsletter, OCR reminds all that HIPAA rules require that you protect patient information with technological, administrative and physical safeguards. OCR states: “While the latest security solutions to combat new threats and vulnerabilities get much deserved attention, appropriate physical security controls are often overlooked. Yet physical security controls remain essential and often […]
It’s Your Call November 2018
OSHA: Our office hired a clinical worker who does not have proof of Hepatitis B 3-shot series. Can we just provide a pre-employment titer? No. If an employee does not have proof, offer a 3-dose series of hepatitis B vaccine, test for anti-HBs in 1–2 months, and document the result in the employee’s health record. […]
A Better Way to Communicate: Globally Harmonized System (GHS)
Prior to 2012, the Hazard Communication Standard, as we knew it, remained somewhat of a mystery. It was difficult to teach and even more difficult to learn due to the lack of consistency and uniformity. Non-compliance seemed to be a result of a failure to understand more so than a willful lack of care. The […]
Your New Friend: Safety Data Sheets
We’ve all seen that dusty manual that has been pushed to the back of the cabinet in labs and sterilization areas. Formally known as Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS), Safety Data Sheets (SDS) often find their home in a book that is rarely read. Safety Data Sheets can be your best friend if you are […]
It’s Your Call October 2018
OSHA: When using a disinfectant wipe, what type of gloves should you use? The gloves types will vary based upon the disinfectant type, Safety Data Sheet (SDS) recommendations, and instructions for use. The SDS for Caviwipes, for example, recommends impervious gloves such as butyl rubber or nitrile for operations which may result in prolonged or […]
HHS Releases New Guidance on Research Authorizations
In June 2018 the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) issued guidance related to streamlining authorization under HIPAA for uses and disclosures of protected health information (PHI) for research. Under the 21st Century Cures Act of 2016, HHS is required to help simplify the research process by clarifying: 1. the authorization for use or […]
Needlestick Safety and Prevention Act
Many busy healthcare providers know how important it is to prevent needlesticks, but they will draw a blank when asked to explain the Needlestick Safety and Prevention Act of 2000. Why do we have to follow it? Just like the requirement to wear a seat belt when you drive, following the Needlestick Safety and Prevention […]
The Bugs of Fall
I can tell you my love for you will still be strong After the boys of summer have gone -Don Henley Anyone remember the song The Boys of Summer by Don Henley? We are going to move away from our summer jaunts to focus on the Bugs of Fall. It is that time of year […]
It’s Your Call September 2018
OSHA: What is the importance of a housekeeping schedule? Exposure to bloodborne pathogens are ever present in clinical settings, and employees must be protected from contaminated surfaces such as cabinets, patient beds, floors, equipment, walls, light handles, etc. OSHA regulation 1910.1030(d)(4)(ii) states: All equipment and environmental and working surfaces shall be cleaned and decontaminated after […]
Dental Unit Waterline Quality Testing Services
Waterlines used in any dental unit that has a water supply, such as syringes and ultrasonic scalers, can become contaminated with biofilm, a coating of microorganisms. To prevent infection, the CDC recommends that dental unit water used in non-surgical procedures is maintained at the same cleanliness standard set for drinking water by the Environmental Protection […]