Exposures

HSC Student Post-Exposure Procedure

In the event that you experience a clinical exposure, please follow the process outlined below. Exposures may include needlesticks/bloodborne pathogens and fluid exposures (body fluids/chemicals). The purpose of this procedure is to ensure exposures are addressed immediately to reduce the risk of infection and to provide prompt treatment, if needed.

1. Immediately notify Preceptor and/or HSC Program director of exposure.
   • If an exposure occurs…
     • on the HSC Campus, contact the HSC Student Health Clinic for next steps.
     • while on clinical rotations, follow rotation site protocols.
     • at a clinical rotation site that does not have a protocol, go to the nearest Urgent Care Center or HSC Student Health Clinic (if nearby). If after-hours, go to the nearest ER.
2. Initial and follow-up care, if necessary, should be provided by the same facility in which the exposure took place, when possible.
3. If you are required to pay for services, use your personal health insurance.
4. Bills and claims associated with bloodborne pathogen (BBP) exposures should be sent to health@unthsc.edu for reimbursement and payment. Note, non-BBP exposures may not be eligible for reimbursement.
5. All student bloodborne pathogen exposures should be reported via the HSC Student BBP Post-Exposure Survey, linked below. You do not need to complete the survey if your exposure was not a BBP.

If you have concerns regarding your exposure or would like to schedule an appointment with a provider to discuss your risk of infection, please contact the Student Health Clinic at 817-735-5051.