Understanding of the Bloodborne Pathogen standard

The employer at your clinic told personnel that it was no longer acceptable for them to wear clean exam gloves while transporting patients, nor was it acceptable to wear clean exam gloves when transporting trash and linen to the decontamination area. The rationale offered for this policy was that if the patients were provided and are using clean gowns and linen, there was no need for gloves. Also, if the trash and linen bags were not soiled, then there was no need for gloves. However, an employee believed that she and her coworkers should protect themselves by using clean gloves during all transport. She was advised by her supervisor that she will be counseled on her behavior should she continue to wear clean exam gloves while performing the previously mentioned duties.

1. The employer directive seems at odds with the employee’s understanding of the Bloodborne Pathogen standard. Can the employer make this decision? Explain your answer.

2. Should this employee wear new gloves when transporting patients?