[drsrn]

Tuesday I received a needlestick (14 guage) from an HIV pt. The arterial needle was already placed in the AVF and taped securely. As I attempted to cannulate the venous site, the arterial needle came up through the pt's skin and punctured my left thumb (fresh blood). Of course, I flew to the ER and the HIV meds were started about and hour and 45 minutes later. I have read all the literature which should be a reassurance to me. The info states that I have only 0.3% chance of HIV from the needlestick. Even though that is very low, my nerves are still shot. I am a registered nurse and have been in the dialysis field for 13 years. Just wondering if any of you other healthcare professionals had experienced anything similar or had any words of wisdom. The next three months will be pure torture. I will have my bloodwork done again at that time, then 6mths, then 12.

[cardiacRN2006]

I've had bloodborn exposure before, but nothing like that (pt wasn't a known HIV+).
Just wanted to wish you good luck. I know what it's like getting those tests and I feel for you. Luckily, the HIV test is really fast so you don't have to wait forever for a result. I got mine the very next day.

How advanced was this pts HIV? He might have a low viral load. Either way, you got the proper treatment immediately.

[traumaRUs]

You should also be able to find out what the patient's C-4 count is? If the pt is compliant, they might not even have a detectable viral load.

I know this is incredibly stressful and I'm so sorry you are going thru this.

[traumaRUs]

I do want to add that we can't provide ANY medical advice. However, we can offer support to a fellow nurse.

[Valerie Salva]

drsrn,

I've had a number of contaminated needlesticks over the years, but none from an HIV+ pt.

I know this must be awful for you.
You are going through what nurses fear most.

I'm sure you know that HIV is really rather difficult to transmit.

Thinking of you and offering my support.

((((((hug)))))))

[errosmith]

I had a direct mucus membrane exposure at dialysis. Pt was not a known HIV+ but who knows?? I did not go on medication but was tested at exposure, 6 wks and at 3 months. All were neg. My exposure was from a dropped syringe filled with blood. Syringe hit the floor, plunger down and squirted me in my face and chest. I was very upset as you were and understandably so. Even though my exposer had a less than 1 % chance of HIV exposure, it was still a chance. Hope all is well.