What should happen to porous and semi-porous items soaked in blood or bodily fluids?

When dealing with porous and semi-porous items that have been soaked in blood or bodily fluids, the safest and most responsible action is to discard them. These materials are difficult to thoroughly clean and decontaminate due to their ability to absorb fluids. Even after cleaning, there may still be residual pathogens or contaminants trapped within the material, posing a risk of infection or disease transmission.

Disposal is the best practice to ensure the safety of individuals who may come into contact with these items in the future. Therefore, recognizing that porous and semi-porous items should not be reused or relied upon to be fully disinfected is crucial in trauma and crime scene cleanup. This approach not only prioritizes health and safety but also aligns with industry standards for managing hazardous materials.