What should an employee do immediately after exposure to potentially infectious materials?

After exposure to potentially infectious materials, the immediate priority is to minimize the risk of infection and begin the process of reporting and managing the incident. Washing the area with soap and water is critical as it helps remove any contaminants that may be present on the skin, significantly reducing the chances of infection. Prompt reporting of the incident is equally important, as it ensures that appropriate follow-up measures, such as medical evaluation and further investigation, can be initiated.

Ignoring the exposure, even if it seems minor, fails to account for the potential risks associated with bloodborne pathogens and could lead to severe health consequences. While applying an antiseptic ointment may seem like a good idea, it is not a substitute for proper washing and can delay necessary medical evaluation. Waiting until the end of the shift to report the incident could also lead to complications, as timely reporting is crucial for effective intervention and may affect the availability of necessary resources or treatments. Thus, washing the area and reporting the incident immediately is the appropriate course of action.