Hepatitis A, B and C

Course Summary

Hepatitis, inflammation of the liver, is caused by a viral infection. Depending on the type of hepatitis, prevention and cures are available, but hepatitis is still a disease with potentially serious consequences. Hepatitis A is spread from person to person, while hepatitis types B and C can be transmitted by contact with blood. People infected with hepatitis C can have the virus in their blood and liver for many years and during that time liver damage will be slowly occurring, but they will have no signs or symptoms of the infection. Infection with hepatitis C can cause cirrhosis and liver cancer, as can hepatitis B. Certified nursing assistants are exposed to blood and body fluids and are potentially exposed to the viruses that cause hepatitis. By following standard precautions and safe injection practice guidelines, a CNA can effectively eliminate the risk of developing an infection.