Question

A 27-year-old foundation doctor sustains a needlestick injury from a hollow-bore needle immediately after taking blood from a known HIV-positive patient whose recent viral load is unknown. What is the most appropriate immediate action regarding HIV post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP)?

Accepted Answer

Start triple-drug HIV PEP as soon as possible

Answer

No PEP is required if the patient is known HIV-positive

Answer

Wait for the patient’s viral load result before deciding

Answer

Give a short course of antibiotics only

Answer

Advise that washing the wound is sufficient

Practice question

A 27-year-old foundation doctor sustains a needlestick injury from a hollow-bore needle immediately after taking blood from a known HIV-positive patient whose recent viral load is unknown. What is the most appropriate immediate action regarding HIV post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP)?