INJURY / EXPOSURE
 

If you are injured or exposed to bloodborne pathogens (BBP) while on duty, the information below outlines how to obtain timely medical evaluation, follow-up, and comply with agency safety protocols.

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Workplace injuries include, but are not limited to:

• Musculoskeletal: back injuries, strains, and sprains from lifting / ambulating a client

• Needlestick: accidental puncture from needle / sharps (exposure to BBP)

• Other BBP exposure: contact (through the eyes, nose, mouth or skin) with blood or bodily fluid

• Slips, trips, falls: while entering, exiting or in the care environment, typically due to wet floors, clutter, or uneven surfaces

• Harmful substances: contact with hazardous drugs, chemicals, or cleaning agents

• Violence: physical violence or abuse from a client, caregiver, or family member

• Transportation-Related: automobile accidents while traveling between clients or traveling for the delivery of care (e.g. transport of lab specimens)​

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Immediate Response​

1. First Aid

   • Needlestick/Blood Exposure: Wash the area with soap and water; flush mucous membranes with water.

   • Chemical Exposure: Rinse thoroughly.

   • Musculoskeletal Injury: Stop activity, apply ice if needed, and assess mobility/pain.
      

2. Notify Agency 

   • Inform a Clinical Supervisor or Manager as soon as possible.​​
      

3. Contact Workers Compensation to report the incident.

   • Call 866-687-0710 (24/7)

     • Employer: Helms Home Care LLC

     • Policy #: KRM394744776
       
        

Medical Evaluation

• The Workers Compensation team will discuss the incident with you and begin the claim filing process.

• You will be connected to an emergency-trained physician if medical treatment is deemed appropriate.

• If ongoing or follow-up care is needed, a referral will be made to an appropriate local provider.
   

Incident Reporting & Evaluation Forms

• Whether you seek medical attention or not, an Injury / Exposure Evaluation form must be completed and returned to a Clinical Supervisor or Manager.

  • Page 1: Required, completed by RN (additional details added by Clinical Supervisor / Manager if applicable)

  • Page 2: Completed by Practitioner; if you decline to seek medical attention, signed declination is required

  • Page 3: for Sharps Injuries only; completed by RN
     

• A Clinical Supervisor or Manager will complete an Incident Report and may reach out to you for details such as:

  • Date, time, location

  • Description of the event

  • Injuries/exposure type

  • Witness names (if any)
     

Follow-Up & Testing

• As ordered / instructed, obtain baseline labs and follow-up testing following exposure to any infectious materials (e.g., blood, mucous, or other bodily fluids).

• The Agency can request the patient be tested when applicable, but patient consent is required.

• The Agency will cover all costs associated with testing and recommended medical care.
   

Workers’ Compensation Claim

• The Human Resources Manager or Agency Administrator will work with the Workers Compensation company to complete any additional steps and necessary paperwork.
   

Resuming Work

• Follow medical restrictions as applicable.