What must the infection control officer do when there is a confirmed infectious exposure?

When there is a confirmed infectious exposure, the infection control officer is responsible for accurately documenting the details of the incident in writing. This written record serves several critical purposes: it provides a formal account of the exposure that is essential for tracking and managing the incident, ensures that all relevant details are preserved accurately for future reference, and aids in compliance with health and safety regulations that require proper documentation of any incidents involving infectious diseases.

Written documentation is crucial for facilitating appropriate follow-up actions, such as notifying potentially affected individuals and implementing necessary safety protocols to prevent further exposure. This written record may also be significant in case of investigations or to provide evidence of the incident for liability or workers' compensation claims.

Verbal documentation lacks the reliability and permanence of written records, making it less suitable for tracking health-related exposures. Notifying only the HR department limits the scope of communication necessary for managing an infectious exposure, as other departments or teams might also require information to ensure safety and health compliance. Submitting information to the janitorial staff does not address the need for comprehensive documentation or the appropriate actions to mitigate the risks associated with the exposure.