Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Identifier

251

Date

2011-04-18

Document Type

Thesis (Campus Access Only)

Degree Name

Master of Public Health

Major

Public Health

Committee Chair

Wasim Maziak

Committee Member

Marian Levy

Committee Member

George Relyea

Abstract

Objective: To assess the effectiveness of the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) exposure control program implementation in the Memphis Division of Fire services.Methods:EMSworkers (N = 141) were sampled from 19 fire stations in Memphis, Tennessee for their perceptions of safe work environment and compliance to safe workplace behaviors concerning blood-borne pathogens using a previously-validated questionnaire.Results:Participants indicated weak compliance concerning use of protective outer garments, eye shields, and masks. Weak agreement was indicated with having orderly work environments and having minimal departmental conflict. Participants indicated strong compliance with proper use and disposal of sharps and potentially contaminated materials. Associations were noted between perception of safe work environment and compliance (p < 0.05).Conclusion: These results demonstrate strengths and weaknesses in the exposure control program in the Memphis Division of Fire Services among EMS personnel.

Comments

Data is provided by the student.

Library Comment

Dissertation or thesis originally submitted to the local University of Memphis Electronic Theses & dissertation (ETD) Repository.

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