Question

A 29-year-old intern sustains a needlestick injury from a hollow-bore needle immediately after taking blood from a patient whose HIV status is unknown. According to Australian post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) guidelines, what is the most appropriate immediate action?

Accepted Answer

Wash the area, assess the exposure risk and, if indicated, commence HIV PEP as soon as possible, ideally within hours

Answer

No action is required if the source HIV status is unknown

Answer

Wait for the patient's HIV test result before deciding on any prophylaxis

Answer

Start lifelong antiretroviral therapy immediately

Answer

Use antibiotics only

Practice question

A 29-year-old intern sustains a needlestick injury from a hollow-bore needle immediately after taking blood from a patient whose HIV status is unknown. According to Australian post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) guidelines, what is the most appropriate immediate action?