Needle Stick injuries

Question 1

What are the risks of transmission for the following needlestick injuries?:

• HIV
• Hep C
• Hep B

Answer 1

• HIV: 1/300
• Hep C: 1/30
• Hep B: 1/3 (much lower if vaccinated)

Question 2

If someone sustains a needle stick injury, what immediate measures should be taken?

Answer 2

1. First aid: bleed and wash wound
2. Collect blood from patient and injured
3. Inform occupational health
4. Check injured’s Hep B vaccination
5. Assess risk and need for immediate HIV PEP

Question 3

If someone sustains a needlestick injury, what long term measures should be taken?

Answer 3

• Appropriate vaccinations
• Antiretrovirals potentially in long term
• Conselling and follow up (repeat HIV and Hep C test at 12 weeks)
• Advice to use condoms while at risk