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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Are The Chances Of Contacting HIV After Suturing A Wound Of A Patient With Unknown HIV Status?

I got sprayed ond the eye and mouth while administrating xilocaine on a forehead wound and wasn t wearing eye protection. Btw I don t know the HiV status of the patient, because I got to attend a emergency shot wound victim and the patient I was suturing, left after my partner finished his suturing, the patient was 16 - 25 aged and showed no sings of chronic disiease. These happened 5 daya ago. What are the odds I may get infected ?
Mon, 7 Jul 2014
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Infectious Diseases Specialist,  's  Response
Hi,

Welcome to HCM.

I understand your concern, but less likely chance of acquiring HIV as the patient's HIV status is unknown. The risk also increases based on exposure occurring on intact skin or compromised skin or through mucous membrane. The volume of infected fluid you have been exposed to and the duration also matters.
Your case seems to be of minimal risk which does not warrant any post exposure prophylaxis.
I would like remind you to use universal precautions, whether the patient is HIV positive or not to prevent occupational exposure.

Thanks.
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Infectious Diseases Specialist,  Dr. Arun's  Response
though patient does not show any sign of the HIV, by considering the patient as HIV positive you should start the treatment with in 48 hours. you are on the fifth day after exposure.mucosal exposure of contaminate blood as high chances that you should be positive. You should start Anti Retro Viral Treatment at earliest and complete the 28 days treatment
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What Are The Chances Of Contacting HIV After Suturing A Wound Of A Patient With Unknown HIV Status?

Hi, Welcome to HCM. I understand your concern, but less likely chance of acquiring HIV as the patient s HIV status is unknown. The risk also increases based on exposure occurring on intact skin or compromised skin or through mucous membrane. The volume of infected fluid you have been exposed to and the duration also matters. Your case seems to be of minimal risk which does not warrant any post exposure prophylaxis. I would like remind you to use universal precautions, whether the patient is HIV positive or not to prevent occupational exposure. Thanks.