A 32-year-old healthcare worker sustains a needlestick from a source with unknown HIV status. She presents within 2 hours. Baseline tests pending. Wha...

Question

A 32-year-old healthcare worker sustains a needlestick from a source with unknown HIV status. She presents within 2 hours. Baseline tests pending. What is the best action?

Accepted Answer

Start a 28‑day 3‑drug PEP regimen immediately and arrange follow‑up testing

Answer

Wait for source testing before starting PEP

Answer

Give a single dose of PEP in the ED only

Answer

PEP is not indicated if the source is unknown

Answer

Start PrEP instead of PEP

USMLE MCQ (SBA): HIV Exposure

A 32-year-old healthcare worker sustains a needlestick from a source with unknown HIV status. She presents within 2 hours. Baseline tests pending. What is the best action?