HEPATITIS C: THE SILENT KILLER, UPDATED 2ND EDITION

Course overview

This course is designed to provide the healthcare professional with an overview of the history of the virus, its presentation, and the methods available to diagnose hepatitis C infection and monitor its progression. Mechanisms to prevent the spread of infection are reviewed; these should be well-known to those healthcare workers already familiar with the mandates of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Bloodborne Pathogens Standard and the Needlestick Safety and Prevention Act. Research to evaluate improved treatment protocols is ongoing. Nurses are often involved with counseling patients on the adverse effects of the potent drugs used in treatments. This course reviews current information about hepatitis C. Knowledgeable nurses are better able to provide education to patients about their illness and may be more likely to reduce the risk of exposure on the job.