Protecting Our Care Teams: Bloodborne Pathogen Training at Knotty Pines

Written By Nicole Malone

At Knotty Pines Senior Community, the health and safety of our residents—and the dedicated professionals who care for them—are our top priorities. As part of our ongoing commitment to safety and compliance, our healthcare team recently completed Bloodborne Pathogen Training, an essential component of workplace health protocols required by OSHA.

Why Bloodborne Pathogen Training Matters

Bloodborne pathogens, such as Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and HIV, pose a serious risk to healthcare workers who may come into contact with blood or other potentially infectious materials (OPIM) in the course of their duties. This training is not just a regulatory requirement—it’s a critical line of defense that helps protect staff and residents alike.

At senior living communities, where medical support and personal care go hand in hand, the risk of exposure can occur during:

  • Wound care and dressing changes

  • Blood sugar monitoring

  • Handling soiled linens or medical waste

  • Accidental needlestick injuries

Proper training ensures our staff can respond confidently and safely in these situations.

What the Training Covered

The course included the most up-to-date standards from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and equipped our staff with the knowledge to:

✅ Identify the most common ways bloodborne pathogens are transmitted
✅ Use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) correctly
✅ Follow universal precautions with every resident, every time
✅ Handle sharps and contaminated materials safely
✅ Respond immediately and appropriately in the event of an exposure
✅ Understand the importance of reporting and post-exposure protocols
✅ Stay compliant with OSHA’s Bloodborne Pathogens Standard (29 CFR 1910.1030)

Staff also reviewed our facility’s Exposure Control Plan, which outlines step-by-step procedures for reducing and managing occupational exposure.

Building a Culture of Safety

Training sessions like this go beyond checking a box—they reinforce a culture of safety and responsibility. When our staff know how to protect themselves, they’re better equipped to provide the best care possible. It’s about giving our team the tools and confidence to act safely, every time.

A Heartfelt Thank You

We’re proud of our team for their engagement and professionalism during this training. Their commitment to learning and safety is a big part of what makes Knotty Pines a trusted home for our residents.

Thank you to every staff member who participated—your dedication keeps our community strong and healthy.

Nicole Malone