How Effective Infection Control Programs Protect Patients and Providers Alike

Infection prevention and control is the field dedicated to preventing healthcare-associated infections. The World Health Organization defines infection prevention and control as a “practical, evidence -based approach to prevent patients and healthcare workers from becoming infected by avoidable infections.” Similarly, the Centers for Disease Control defines it as the measures taken to “prevent or stop […]

It’s Your Call – June 2024

sharps safety device

OSHA/Infection Control: Can you refuse to use a safety device for a sharp instrument on the basis that it costs too much? By law, you must review your sharps (any device that cuts or punctures the skin) every year. Any new safety devices that have the potential to be safer than what you are using must […]

It’s Your Call – May 2024

OSHA: Would OSHA inspect our office if a patient files a complaint about infection control? No. OSHA’s primary goal is to help employers and workers with compliance, reduce work hazards, and prevent injuries, illnesses, and deaths in the workplace. A quick fact sheet about OSHA inspections can be found at https://www.osha.gov/sites/default/files/factsheet-inspections.pdf.   HIPAA: What are […]

It’s Your Call – April 2024

HIPAA: As a small provider practice, can we afford cyber insurance? Investing in cyber insurance is crucial for small provider practices facing the growing threat of cyberattacks. While the cost may vary depending on factors like coverage level and practice size, the expense of cyber insurance is often far outweighed by the potential financial losses […]

It’s Your Call – March 2024

OSHA/Infection Control: What is the appropriate cleaning method for heavy duty utility gloves? It is best to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use because the methods vary.  Here are some variations that you may find: Autoclavable up to 5 times Not autoclavable. Wash with mild soap and water. Hang to dry.   HIPAA: We are […]

It’s Your Call – February 2024

sanctions policies and OSHA COVID requirements

OSHA: We have an employee out with COVID-19. What is the current timeline for healthcare workers to return to work? The CDC guidance says that employees experiencing a mild to moderate case of COVID-19 who are not moderately to severely immunocompromised may return to work after 7 days have passed since symptoms first occurred (day […]

Mitigating Risks: Strategies for Managing Chemical Exposure in Medical and Dental Offices

Managing Chemical Exposure in Healthcare article

Chemical exposure in medical and dental offices has the potential to create significant risks to both patients and employees. Implementation of preventative measures and adherence to safety protocols are two important keys in addressing issues created by and managing chemical exposure. Healthcare employees interact with a variety of chemicals daily, including disinfectants and cleaning agents. […]

OSHA and Electrical Violations

Osha and electrical violations and safety

Ignoring or not following safety rules can create serious issues concerning patient and employee safety, in addition to the potential for expensive penalties and legal issues. OSHA focuses on electrical safety during inspections for two important reasons: Electrical shock injuries can be lethal. OSHA reports an average of one workplace electrocution fatality per day. Electricity […]

It’s Your Call – January 2024

HIPAA: What happens if we employ an individual who is found to be on an exclusion list? If you employ an individual who has been sanctioned or excluded by the Office of Inspector General (OIG) from participating in federal health care programs, and that individual provides reimbursable items or services under such programs, you may […]