HCAF: Protecting Yourself and Your Patients from Bed Bugs (1 SN, OT, ST CEU)

Bed bugs are on the rise globally, and they spread through human movement. Since bed bugs only live indoors and prefer to feed on humans, Florida home care workers are at greater risk of acquiring bed bugs in their patients'/clients' homes as well as spreading them.

In this webinar recording, Johanna Welch, BS, DPM (Doctor of Plant Medicine), of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services will discuss key bed bug concepts everyone should know.

This course will focus on preventing and protecting oneself from bed bugs when working in patient/client homes, as well as curbing the further spread of these pests. As well as providing an overview of bed bugs, Johanna Welch will discuss their life cycle, habitat, and behaviors, along with the potential health risks associated with bed bug infestations. During her presentation, she will discuss how bed bugs can be transmitted from one location to another, as well as the key signs that indicate an infestation. Active participants will learn how to identify bed bug bites and differentiate them from other insect bites. Johanna Welch will describe preventive measures, such as how to inspect and assess patients'/clients' homes for bed bugs, how to minimize the risk of infestation, what steps to take if bed bugs are detected in a client's home, and how to properly handle infested materials. To prevent bed bugs from hitching a ride to their next patient's/client's home, their own home, or the homes of their family and friends, participants will learn how to properly clean and sanitize their work equipment and clothing.

Hear an expert in the field who can assist you in preventing and controlling bed bug infestations, thereby reducing the risk of exposure to you, your patients, and your community.

Speaker/Course Author - Johanna Welch, BS, DPM