WAC 246-145-020   Standard universal precautions for preventing the spread of disease in electrology.  The following universal precautions must be used by electrologists in the care of all clients.

     (1) Wash hands with soap and water immediately before and after each client contact;

     (2) Wash hands and other skin surfaces immediately and thoroughly if contaminated with blood or other body fluids;

     (3) Wash hands immediately before single-use disposable gloves are put on and after gloves are removed;

     (4) Clean the client's skin by applying an antiseptic or antibacterial solution prior to and following treatment;

     (5) Wear new gloves with each client to prevent skin and mucous membrane exposure contact with blood or other body fluids of each client;

     (6) Wear gloves for touching blood and body fluids, mucous membranes, or nonintact skin of all clients, and for handling items or surfaces soiled with blood or body fluids;

     (7) Change gloves after contact with each client;

     (8) Immediately remove gloves that are torn or have small pinholes, wash hands and put on new gloves;

     (9) Take precautions to prevent injuries caused by needles and other sharp instruments or devices during procedures; when cleaning used instruments; during disposal of used needles; and when handling sharp instruments after procedures;

     (10) Prevent needlestick injuries by not recapping needles or breaking needles by hand and by not otherwise manipulating contaminated needles by hand;

     (11) Dispose of used disposable needles and other sharp items in puncture-resistant containers;

     (12) Inspect hands for small cuts, sores and abrasions; if present, use a Seal-skin product or bandage. If the electrologist has weeping dermatitis or draining sores, the electrologist should avoid contact with clients and equipment until the weeping dermatitis or draining sores are healed;

     (13) Regularly clean and disinfect countertops; regularly clean walls when visibly soiled; regularly vacuum and clean carpets and floors; and

     (14) Clean and disinfect other frequently touched surfaces including, but not limited to, equipment and lamps between each client.



[Statutory Authority: RCW 70.54.340. 10-12-057, § 246-145-020, filed 5/27/10, effective 7/1/10; 02-11-109, § 246-145-020, filed 5/20/02, effective 6/20/02.]