HIV, Bloodborne Pathogens, and Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)

---

How to Take This Course:

• 1 View Course Worksheet -  View the course worksheet or print it out to review later
• 2 Read the Course Material -  As you read through, mark your answers on the course worksheet to be prepared for the exam
• 3 Take Exam -  You must achieve a score of 75% or higher in order to earn credit for the course.
• You don't need to pay for an exam until AFTER you pass it - unless you have an active unlimited membership. If you have any questions or need more information, please click here.

---

CE Course Description

Bloodborne pathogens (BBPs), including human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), and hepatitis C virus (HCV), and common sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are all public health issues that disproportionately impact vulnerable, oppressed, and marginalized people and their communities in the United States. According to the National Association of Social Workers (NASW), the primary mission of the social work profession is to enhance human well-being and help meet the basic needs of all people, with particular attention to the needs and empowerment of people who are vulnerable, oppressed, and living in poverty. Therefore, this mission aligns with the ongoing need for social workers to be knowledgeable and skilled when working with individuals affected by these diseases. Designed for social workers in a variety of community and workplace settings, including health care, social services, and supportive housing, this course provides participants with essential knowledge of HIV, other BBPs, including HBV and HCV, and STDs, including the risk factors, transmission, symptoms, and prevention of these conditions. Workplace exposure risks and best practices for reducing exposure are also reviewed. Occupational and non-occupational exposure responses, reporting, and disclosure in accordance with public health standards and workplace protocols are outlined in detail. Additionally, trauma-informed communication and client-focused education on sensitive health topics are emphasized. Lastly, specific social work implications for practice are discussed. Upon completion, learners will have a strong understanding of disease prevention, early detection, and the importance of reducing stigma to promote overall community health.

Author: Amy Colver, MSSA, MA, LISW  

CE Course Objectives

1. Describe the risk factors, transmission, symptoms, and prevention strategies for HIV, bloodborne pathogens, including the hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV), and common STDs.
2. Recognize workplace exposure risks and implement appropriate protective measures.
3. Summarize universal precautions and proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
4. Explain protocols for exposure response and reporting.
5. Identify trauma-informed strategies to communicate effectively and respectfully with patients or clients about sensitive health topics.
6. Describe harm-reduction and public health efforts within the professional social work role.
7. List specific social work implications for practice.

Course Date: 2026-07-13

Content License

Our courseware includes the text content found on our websites as well as video, audio, and exam questions that make up our courses. You can link to and access our courseware free of charge for personal use. You may not modify or redistribute our courseware under any circumstances.

Although we allow free access for personal use, you may not use our courseware for any commercial purposes without an agreement in place. This includes (but is not limited to) using our courseware for internal training, redistributing our courseware for sale, and copying all or parts of any of our courseware.

If you're interested in licensing our content for commercial purposes or have any other questions, please contact legal@edcompassedu.com.

Proprietary Interest Policy

We will disclose, in advance, any proprietary interest in any product, instrument, device, service, or material to be discussed during the learning event, as well as the source of any third-party compensation related to the presentation. This policy applies to both our organization and contractors. If such proprietary/financial interests exist, we will publish a disclaimer in marketing or instructional materials for a course.

No conflict of interest or relevant financial relationship was identified for this learning activity for individuals in a position to control content.

System Requirements

In order to view this course, you will need to be able to view a PDF document for the course material. If your device doesn't have the capability to view a PDF, you can click here to download Adobe Acrobat for free.

Special Needs

If you require ADA or other special needs accommodations, please contact us by email: support@mindfulceus.com or by phone 1-800-413-3797, so arrangements can be made.

‹ Return to Courses