Question

A 42-year-old doctor accidentally sustains a needlestick injury from a hollow-bore needle immediately after taking blood from a known HIV-positive patient with unknown viral load. The injury bled freely and occurred 30 minutes ago. What is the most appropriate immediate management?

Accepted Answer

Start HIV post-exposure prophylaxis as soon as possible

Answer

Reassure; no further action is needed

Answer

Arrange HIV test in 6 months only

Answer

Wait for the patient’s recent viral load before deciding

Answer

Give Hepatitis A vaccine only

Practice question

A 42-year-old doctor accidentally sustains a needlestick injury from a hollow-bore needle immediately after taking blood from a known HIV-positive patient with unknown viral load. The injury bled freely and occurred 30 minutes ago. What is the most appropriate immediate management?