Manual of Policies and Procedures for Wade Nursing Registry

Universal Precautions and Medical Asepsis Rules When Handling Body Wastes

  • Wash hands before and after wearing gloves
  • Wear gloves when:

    - there is risk of contact with urine, feces, sputum, mucous membranes, vomit, blood, or drainage from wounds
    - assisting client with toileting who have diarrhea, incontinence of urine and/or feces, or an ostomy
    - measuring client's output
    - handling clothing or bed linens soiled with body fluids

  • Dispose of body waste carefully; avoid splashing when disposing of contents of bedpan, urinal, or commode; if splashing occurs, clean area immediately
  • Empty bedpans and urinals immediately after use; clean and disinfect properly
  • Wear goggles if there is danger of splashing body fluids in your eyes
  • Place soiled disposable material in plastic bags; remove immediately and discard
  • Double bag any soiled linens or clothing; launder as soon as possible