Bloodborne Pathogens Revised (2022)

Course Preview

Course Author(s)

Dr. Kevin Jablonski - LAPD Police Psychologist

Course Summary

The COVID-19 pandemic has elevated, and instilled again, the critical importance for law enforcement officers, jailers, and correctional officers to be aware of the ever-increasing number of people who might be or who are infected with bloodborne pathogens such as hepatitis. Officers need to pay special attention to possible bloodborne pathogen transmissions.

Individuals who have been incarcerated are at greater risk for infection, and this is a population that officers frequently come into contact with.

Law enforcement and jail/corrections officers also may encounter hypodermic needles, drug paraphernalia, and combative subjects, bringing them within close proximity to blood and bodily fluids. This course teaches officers methods and practices to keep themselves and their coworkers from becoming infected with a bloodborne pathogen such as hepatitis or HIV.

Professionals who take this course in conjunction with our COVID-19 Overview for First Responders course will be well-trained to be safer on the job. 

Course Syllabus

  • Course Introduction

    • SME Introduction
    • Introduction to Bloodborne Pathogens
  • Module 1 - What are Bloodborne Pathogens?

    • Module Objectives
    • SME Introduction
    • What are Bloodborne Pathogens?
    • HIV
    • Hepatitis B Virus
    • Hepatitis C Virus
    • Module Summary
  • Module 2 - Occupational Exposures to Bloodborne Pathogens

    • Module Objectives
    • SME Introduction
    • Elements of Exposure
    • Occupational Exposures
    • Module Summary
  • Module 3 - Reducing the Risk of Exposure to Bloodborne Pathogens

    • Module Objectives
    • SME Introduction
    • Agency Policy and Procedure
    • Prevention
    • Universal Precautions
    • Module Summary
  • Module 4 - Steps to Take If Exposed to Bloodborne Pathogens

    • Module Objectives
    • SME Introduction
    • Post Exposure
    • Treatment for Exposures
    • Serial Blood Testing
    • Module Summary
  • Module 5 - Bloodborne Pathogens and the Coronavirus

    • Bloodborne Pathogens and the Coronavirus
    • How to Protect Yourself
    • Download Resources
    • Assessment
  • Post-Assessment