Cleaning up body fluid spills in a participant's home

Before you start

Make sure the participant is safe and comfortable first. Keep others away from the area.

Step by step

1. Clean your hands and put on gloves and an apron — add a mask and eye protection if splashing is possible.
2. Cover the spill with paper towels to absorb it.
3. Lift the bulk into a sealable bag — don't spread it around.
4. Clean the area with detergent and warm water.
5. Disinfect with the product your provider supplies, following its label and contact time.
6. Bag waste and PPE, seal the bag and dispose of it as your provider directs.
7. Clean your hands with soap and water.

Soiled clothing and linen

Remove solid matter into the toilet, keep soiled items in a bag, and wash them separately on the hottest cycle the fabric allows. Don't shake them.

Blood and sharps

Treat all blood as potentially infectious. If there's a needle or sharp, don't pick it up with your hands — use tongs or follow your provider's procedure, and report it.