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182 Healthcare: Ethylene Oxide Safety
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Introduction

Ethylene oxide (EtO) gas sterilizers have been used by hospitals for many decades to sterilize surgical equipment and supplies that are heat sensitive or that cannot tolerate excessive moisture. However, in recent times, EtO has been known to cause severe health issues for some hospital and healthcare workers.

This course takes a closer look at the dangers of EtO, as well as ways to stay safe when working around the chemical in a healthcare setting.

Course Objectives

At the end of this course, you should be able to:
ID Objective
TO 1.0 Achieve a minimum score of 70% on the final course assessment.
LO 1.1.1 Describe the characteristics of ethylene oxide (EtO), its associated hazards and exposure routes.
LO 1.1.2 Identify the symptoms of acute and chronic exposure to EtO.
LO 1.1.3 Describe the methods to control EtO hazards using the "Hierarchy of Controls."
LO 1.1.4 Discuss first aid procedures in response to EtO exposure.
LO 1.1.5 Describe hospital sterilization of medical equipment and surgical items.
LO 1.1.6 Identify employer responsibilities to ensure employees are not exposed to EtO beyond the PEL or excursion limit.

Key: Terminal Objective (TO), Learning Objective (LO)