A dialysis technician observes a drop of blood on the surface of a patient's dialysis machine. What action is appropriate?

• A. Disinfect the entire clinic
• B. Ignore it
• C. Clean the machine surface immediately
• D. Label the surface and continue treatment

Answer: (C)

Infection control and standard precautions require prompt cleaning of any surface contaminated with blood. A drop of blood on a dialysis machine surface is a potential exposure risk, since blood can carry pathogens. The safest and most appropriate response is to clean the surface immediately with an approved disinfectant, following the facility’s protocol (wear gloves, use the correct contact time, and dispose of used wipes and any contaminated materials in biohazard waste). This removes the contaminant and helps prevent transmission to other patients or staff.

Disinfecting the entire clinic for a single drop is unnecessary, and ignoring the spill or labeling the surface and continuing without cleaning would leave a transmission risk. After cleaning, ensure the surface is dry and ready for the next step of patient care.