Blood-Borne Viral Infections

What is a blood-borne viral infection (BBVI)?

A blood-borne viral infection (BBVI) is a virus that is present in the blood and can be transmitted from one person to another through blood-to-blood contact. Common examples include:

• Hepatitis B (HBV)
• Hepatitis C (HCV)
• Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)

Responsibilities of regulated members

If you are a regulated member who performs exposure-prone procedures, it is your responsibility to:

• Know your viral status
• Undergo regular testing
• Self-report to CPSA if you test positive for a BBVI

These requirements help protect both patients and healthcare providers, and ensure that care is delivered safely and ethically.

What is an exposure-prone procedure (EPP)?

An exposure-prone procedure (EPP) is an invasive medical procedure where a healthcare provider’s hands may be in contact with sharp instruments or tissue inside a patient’s wound or body cavity. These types of procedures carry a higher risk for the transmission of blood-borne viral infections (BBVIs).

Examples of EPPs include:

• Surgical procedures (any type)
• Emergency, non-elective procedures performed in high-risk settings (such as emergency rooms)
• Situations where there is a realistic risk of being bitten by a patient, such as during certain psychiatric or pediatric care interactions

Alberta Expert Review Panel

CPSA’s Health & Practice Conditions Monitoring (HPCM) team works with physicians diagnosed with a BBVI to coordinate appropriate monitoring and ensure the continued delivery of safe patient care.

Physicians with a BBVI who perform EPPs are referred to the Alberta Expert Review Panel (ERP). The ERP:

• Provides anonymous, case-by-case reviews.
• Offers recommendations for safe clinical practice and appropriate monitoring.
• Supports both healthcare workers and regulators in managing BBVIs in the workplace.
• Is administered by CPSA on behalf of all regulated health professions in Alberta.