What is the correct action if you spill a patient’s blood or bodily fluids in the reception area?

• A. Ignore the spill and continue work.
• B. Move the patient to another area.
• C. Immediately isolate the area, wear gloves, clean up with appropriate disinfectant per protocol, and report the incident.
• D. Only wipe with paper towels and dispose.

Answer: (C)

Spills of patient blood or bodily fluids pose an infection risk, so the response must prioritize containment, protection, and proper decontamination. The best action is to promptly isolate the area to prevent exposure, put on gloves (and other required PPE), clean up using the designated disinfectant with the correct contact time per protocol, and report the incident to the supervisor or infection control. This sequence addresses safety by preventing spread, using appropriate products and methods, and ensuring the incident is documented for any follow-up care or exposure assessment. After cleanup, dispose of waste according to biohazard procedures and perform hand hygiene.

Ignoring the spill, moving the patient, or wiping with paper towels alone do not adequately protect staff or prevent transmission, which is why they aren’t appropriate.