Infectious Diseases & Immunology — Medical Practice MCQ

Correct answer: C — Start a recommended three-drug HIV post-exposure prophylaxis regimen immediately while completing baseline tests and specialist follow-up with review after review

The best answer is “Start a recommended three-drug HIV post-exposure prophylaxis regimen immediately while completing baseline tests and specialist follow-up with review after review”. PEP effectiveness is time-sensitive; a significant percutaneous exposure to detectable viraemia warrants immediate combination therapy rather than delayed confirmation. “Withhold PEP because the source viral load is not quantified precisely” is less appropriate because it conflicts with the clinical discriminator or cited guidance. “Use one antiretroviral drug to reduce toxicity” is less appropriate because it conflicts with the clinical discriminator or cited guidance. “Wait for the worker to develop detectable HIV antibody” is less appropriate because it conflicts with the clinical discriminator or cited guidance. “Use immunoglobulin instead of antiretroviral therapy” is less appropriate because it conflicts with the clinical discriminator or cited guidance.

Reference: BASHH/BHIVA occupational and non-occupational HIV PEP guideline: https://bhiva.org/clinical-guideline/pep-guidelines/