The use and practice of body substance precautions in sports physiotherapy

Abstract

This study examined the use of Universal Precautions in the management of bleeding sports injuries. A survey was used which asked questions on: demographics, hepatitis B vaccination, first aid practices and frequency of blood contact. The national sample consisted of 1800 Australian Physiotherapy Association National Sports Physiotherapy Group members. The response rate was 29.2 per cent. Eighty-five per cent of physiotherapists were exposed to bleeding injuries. The use of rubber gloves in the treatment of bleeding injuries was low (47 per cent using them always/frequently). Only 60 per cent disposed of sharp instruments appropriately. Eighty per cent reported being immunised against hepatitis B. Experience was strongly associated with appropriate first aid practices. The study suggests that physiotherapists in sport are not consistently adhering to Universal Precautions.