To prevent cross infection when performing first aid you should:

• Wash your hands and wear disposable gloves
• Avoid coughing and sneezing over the wound, and avoid touching it
• Dispose of all soiled dressings, including gloves, in an appropriately marked (orange/yellow) plastic bag
• Dispose of sharp items, including syringes and needles, in a purpose made sharps bin and dispose of it appropriately. It may mean taking it to your local hospital for correct disposal

Rescuers should take appropriate safety precautions where feasible, especially if the casualty is known to have a serious infection such as tuberculosis (TB) or severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS)

During an outbreak of a highly infectious condition such as SARS, then protective precautions for the rescuer are essential