We paper screen all quetionnaires now and in the main clear fitness to work
from this. Healthcare workers are sent an appointment to attend the dept for
a vaccine update and commence any necessary surveillance etc. What we do
depends largely on a "Job risk profile" which is completed by the appointing
manager to highlight risks and exposures associated with the job. THe only
exception are EPP workers who are not cleared until we have been satisfied
with appropriatly validated evidence of immunity to hep B and now hepc
screening. It is currently a very fluid time re requirements, and all our
policies are awaiting imminent update. the green book as already stated it
little help. We take guidance also from our regional labs for communicable
disease, and our consultant microbiologist.
Re Rubella... we have been screening all staff for this (as green book), but
are likely to amend to all clinical staff (based on risk assessment).
Varicella we screen clinical staff if no clear history of chickenpox. TB
scar check of all staff and document status but only do BCG if clinical risk
of exposure.
Re those who do not wish to comply.. this should be part of the terms of
contract if mandatory ie EPP, but for the rest good advice and education and
risk minimisation.
regards
Christine
-----Original Message-----
From: Oozageer Brinda (RGZ) [mailto:[log in to unmask]]
Sent: 16 September 2003 13:07
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Immunity checks & Pre- employment screening
Please could I have your views on the following:
I am based at an NHS establishment and we are currently looking at reviewing
our procedure for pre- employment screening. One of the things we will be
looking at is to see every prospective employee in the department to
establish their immunity to TB.i.e for BCG scar check. For those of you also
in the NHS, I would appreciate your views on this and any other useful
suggestions as to how these employees can be seen either prior or on
commencement of employment.
I would also like to know if it is necessary to ascertain employees immunity
to rubella and varicella (excluding maternity and Paeds). Would you delay a
clinical worker's fitness to work if Rubella and Varicella immunity has not
been confirmed?
Brinda Oozageer
Occupational Health Nurse
Tel: 020 8308 3037
Fax: 020 8308 1916
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