Question

A 29-year-old nurse sustains a needlestick injury from a patient known to be HIV positive with a high viral load who is not on treatment. The injury occurs on the ward and is reported within 30 minutes. What is the most appropriate management regarding HIV post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP)?

Accepted Answer

Offer HIV PEP as soon as possible, ideally within 72 hours

Answer

Reassure that PEP is not indicated for occupational exposures

Answer

Delay PEP until baseline HIV serology at 6 weeks

Answer

Wait for the patient's latest viral load before deciding on PEP

Answer

Recommend a single dose of antiretroviral medication only

Practice question

A 29-year-old nurse sustains a needlestick injury from a patient known to be HIV positive with a high viral load who is not on treatment. The injury occurs on the ward and is reported within 30 minutes. What is the most appropriate management regarding HIV post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP)?