A 28-year-old nurse sustains a needlestick injury from a source patient whose HIV status is unknown and cannot be immediately tested. The exposure is ...

Question

A 28-year-old nurse sustains a needlestick injury from a source patient whose HIV status is unknown and cannot be immediately tested. The exposure is percutaneous with visible blood. According to Canadian PEP guidelines, what is the most appropriate management?

Accepted Answer

Initiate HIV post-exposure prophylaxis as soon as possible, ideally within hours, and arrange testing

Answer

Reassure; PEP is not required for unknown status

Answer

Wait 72 hours before deciding on PEP

Answer

Use antibiotics only

Answer

Rely on influenza vaccination status

ca-rcpsc-em MCQ (SBA): Occupational needlestick exposure

A 28-year-old nurse sustains a needlestick injury from a source patient whose HIV status is unknown and cannot be immediately tested. The exposure is percutaneous with visible blood. According to Canadian PEP guidelines, what is the most appropriate management?