What is the best practice for cleaning up blood spills?

The best practice for cleaning up blood spills is to wear gloves, use absorbent materials, and then disinfect the area afterward because this approach minimizes the risk of exposure to bloodborne pathogens. Gloves create a barrier between your skin and any potentially infectious materials, reducing the chance of transmission of diseases.

Using absorbent materials ensures that the spill is effectively contained and prevents any further spread, which can occur if the liquid is simply wiped or left to air dry. After the initial cleanup, disinfection is crucial to kill any remaining pathogens, providing a safer environment afterward. This systematic method aligns with established guidelines for biohazard cleanup, emphasizing safety and thoroughness.

Other methods, such as using talcum powder, wiping with a damp cloth, or allowing the spill to air dry, do not ensure proper containment, cleaning, or disinfection, increasing the risk of infection or contamination.