• What precautions should I take when employed in correctional services?
• What personal protection should I use?
• What precautions should I take when performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation?

What precautions should I take when employed in correctional services?

Correctional service workers are at risk of infectious diseases including AIDS.

Identify high risk areas and procedures. Eliminate "blind" searches where you cannot see what your hands are touching. Use mirrors and other devices.

What personal protection should I use?

Wear gloves:

• if hands have open sores
• when in contact with non-intact skin of inmates
• when in direct contact with blood, blood specimens, semen, tissue, body fluids, blood soiled items
• when in contact with any surface or object visibly soiled with blood or body fluids
• when disposing of contaminated items

When an inmate becomes combative or threatening, gloves should be put on as soon as possible.

Wash hands:

• after contacting blood or body fluids
• after cleaning up spills
• after handling contaminated items
• immediately after removing gloves and gown

What precautions should I take when performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation?

• Use disposable mouthpieces or other resuscitation devices for CPR.

NOTE: Correctional service workers do not routinely wear masks and protective eye wear. This equipment should be available when needed.

Document confirmed current on January 13, 2010

Document last updated on May 23, 2000

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