Question

A 30-year-old junior doctor sustains a needlestick injury from a hollow-bore needle immediately after taking blood from a patient whose HIV status is unknown but who is considered high risk. The incident is reported within 30 minutes. What is the most appropriate management?

Accepted Answer

Offer HIV post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) as soon as possible and arrange follow-up testing

Answer

Reassure, no further action is required

Answer

Wait for the patient’s HIV test result before starting any treatment

Answer

Advise the doctor to attend occupational health next week

Answer

Start long-term antiretroviral therapy for 6 months

Practice question

A 30-year-old junior doctor sustains a needlestick injury from a hollow-bore needle immediately after taking blood from a patient whose HIV status is unknown but who is considered high risk. The incident is reported within 30 minutes. What is the most appropriate management?