HIV Needlestick

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I've been a dialysis nurse for 13 years. Tuesday I was stuck by a 14 gauge needle from an HIV pt. The arterial needle came up thru the pt's skin and punctured my left thumb. We followed protocol, went to ER and started all the meds. Pt is neg for HEPB and HEPC but we have known for years that the pt is HIV+. My initial tests results were of course neg but I have to be retested in 3 mths, 6 mths, and a year. I'm going out of my mind with worry. Just wondering if any of you had experienced anything similar or if you know anyone that actually has acquired HIV from this type of accident. I know the information says the risk is low, but all I can think of the fresh blood, large hollow bore needle, BIG stick. I don't want to risk giving anything to my husband so our whole family is pretty much going crazy with fear.

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Dear drsrn:

I am sending you warm thoughts and hugs :redbeathe:redbeathe:redbeathe:redbeathe

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Specializes in ob/gyn med /surg.

my prayers are with you.. i know i was accidently stabbed with dirty sissors a few weeks ago , i have to be tested the same schedule as you , the rapid hiv came up neg , whew ... i will pray for you that all will be okay. please keep me posted...

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Specializes in Family Nurse Practitioner.

No sage advice but I'll send good vibes your way. I am so sorry this happened to you.

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If my family were worried, I'd cite the figures to calm them.

From http://www.aic.cuhk.edu.hk/web8/needle_stick_injury.htm

]Risk of HIV transmission of from a single percutaneous exposure to blood

  • ]for HIV: 0.3% (95% confidence interval (CI):0.2% to 0.5%)

  • ]for HBV: 6 - 30%

  • ]for HCV: 3%

Also see: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/64503.php (same 0.3% rate cited).

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Specializes in Med/Surge, Psych, LTC, Home Health.

No advice, but just sending good thoughts your way. I can't imagine how worried you must be!

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Specializes in Neonatal ICU (Cardiothoracic).

Unfortunately we cannot offer medical advice here on Allnurses. Please consult your GP. As part of your HIV workup, you should have received counseling regarding risk and other issues. Wishing you the best......Stevern21 - Allnurses mod

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i had a stick while trying to close a sharps container...wasn't sure which resident the needle was used on but in that hall there were several so i had to go through same regimen that you are going through

showed no positive on any tests

think postive

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