I have been working in the HIV/AIDS arena for a while now and I am so dissatisfied with HCWs not using timers when doing HIV testing. We are still seeing cellphones and watches being used during testing phase. I totally get that it feels as if we are being difficult and adding an action to your work but actually, we are trying to protect you and your families.
Cellphones and watches belong to you, if you're anything like me, you're on it all the time. This places you at risk of infection if contaminated during testing. Remember you are working with body fluids. It is your right to work in a safe environment but that safety is also managed by you.
As HCWs we all have a collective responsibility to infection prevention and control and safety at work. Watches and cellphones are your personal effects, keep it safe, keep it clean. Use timers during HIV testing, its your best aid in quality and best defense to keeping your personal effects clear of harboring germs.
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