Which individuals are involved in the post-exposure notification process?

• A. The exposed public safety or emergency response employee
• B. The designated infection control officer (DICO)
• C. The representative from the medical facility to which the source patient was transported
• D. The exposed public safety or emergency response employee, the DICO, and the representative from the medical facility to which the source patient was transported

Answer: (D)

Post-exposure notification requires a coordinated, multi-party process. The person who was exposed must be identified and informed promptly, with a rapid assessment for vaccination status and potential need for post-exposure prophylaxis. The designated infection control officer coordinates the agency’s infection prevention response, ensuring proper documentation, surveillance, and communication with the exposed individual and health care partners. The representative from the medical facility that treated the source patient provides crucial information about the source’s infection status and the appropriate contacts, enabling accurate risk assessment and any necessary follow-up actions. When all three are involved, the notification is timely, accurate, and comprehensive, with clear lines of communication and coordinated care.