Personal Hygiene

Regular hand washing by those exposed to any contagion can reduce their risk of contamination. Exposure to airborne viruses (eg, those working in a pharmacy at the height of flu and cold season) can be assisted through immunisation in addition to regular hand washing.

Immunisation

All staff exposed to either airborne or blood borne contagion in the course of their work should be offered a course of immunisation; flu vaccination is advisable given the high exposure to the public and the ill.

Single use cups

If the pharmacy is involved in a methadone program, single use cups should be used and rinsed before disposal in general waste.

Disinfection

Where blood or other fluids are spilled, the area should be wiped (gloves and goggles used) and disinfected with 100% strength of a certified disinfectant. 

Written Procedure

There should be written and known procedures to follow for substance isolation with training provided during induction.