Glenn,
This request by the agency for HBsAb levels is consistent at my Trust. It
would be interesting to know their rationale for requesting this report.
However, on individuals requesting their Hep B levels, they are either
advised to tell the agency that they have to arrange it via their OH support
or advised that repeat bloods are not necessary and a copy of their previous
levels are given. It is not advisable to have HBsAb levels two years
post-vaccine as results could be inaccurate, therefore, this has unnecessary
implications on the OH Dept if the individuals' blood comes back <100iu/l.
I agree that bloods are unnecessary if they have never been vaccinated with
Hep B and HBsAg is not required if they are not EPP workers.
I would check with the local authorities what guidelines are in place
regarding nursing agency requests for blood reports - also the blood tests
are not required at the individuals place of work, wasting money, time and
resources.
Please let us know what information you do find regarding this matter.
Brinda Oozageer
Occupational Health Nurse
Tel: 020 8302 2678 Ext 4542
Fax: 020 8308 1916
-----Original Message-----
From: Glenn Raybone [mailto:[log in to unmask]]
Sent: 19 March 2004 11:32
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Agency Staff and Hep B
Hello all,
your advice and opinions on a confidential matter please. I'm having issues
with an agency who employ nurses for whom we do PEHS. They are becoming
more and more insistant on having a level for Hepatitis B for staff, almost
to the degree that they have to have a blood test taken regardless of past
vaccination.
I have explained that whilst this is best practice to get people covered,
it is not compulsory, and to take and test blood for someone who may never
have had a vaccine is ridiculous and a waste of time and money, especially
as none of them undertake EPP.
Before I compose my written response to the agency can I ask if anyone else
is having the same issues??
regards,
Glenn Raybone
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