I Contracted HIV

[sarahwv]

I came here to post because I've just felt very sad for the last few days. I graduated in May 2008 and started in the ER at a local hospital. In October I was trying to start an IV on a man who came in and accidently pricked myself! We started all the usual protocol for this type of event as soon as it happened. I continued to be tested, but this Tuesday I got a call from the doc to come in. I'm now HIV+. I know its not the end of the world with all the advance they've made and what not, but I'm still very sad...especially since I've always dreamed of being a mother to many children. This may also affect my work. I've been on approved leave since finding out. Just had to vent about this guys. Thanks.

[hiddencatRN, BSN, RN]

((hugs))

I want to echo everyone who has mentioned advances in treatment- there are a lot of options out there, but definitely go to a specialist to be treated. Someone specializing in HIV treatment will be up on all those new treatments and protocols and will also know about studies you might be eligible for. I volunteer at an HIV clinic, and the NP I work with is currently seeing a few pregnant women. The risk for passing HIV on to the baby is very low with treatment now, so biological children don't have to be out of the picture for you.

[sissiesmama, ASN, RN]

I am SO sorry to hear about this. That is horrible news, even more so in this time of year. My husband and I will keep you and yours in our prayers.

Anne, RNC

[floatRN]

I am so sorry to hear your story. I will keep you in my prayers.

[One Flew Over]

My thoughts are with you. Stay strong :heartbeat

[Smurfette752, BSN]

I am so sorry to hear that news Sarah...but I agree with a previous post...get checked again, it is possible it is a false negative.

And if it is definitely positive...there are SO MANY advances in HIV care and you can live a full and healthy life with this diagnosis.

As for the children...you CAN have children...there are meds you can take while pregnant that will prevent the baby from contracting HIV (not 100%, but close to.) Look up HIV and pregnancy. Also I work in a group home woth HIV+ women and one of them had twins a few months ago...both are HIV NEGATIVE!!!

Good luck!

[NursingAgainstdaOdds]

May you heal from this event ... may you dream, hope, and be blessed in the future. My heart is with you.

------

You can still be a mother! Be it in a "traditional" way with some further precautions, as mentioned ... or be it to children already born who desperately need your love. No one should be deprived of this extraordinary role we mortals may fulfill.

[Nacki, MSN, NP]

Sarah...I hate to hear this kind of news. Especially with you just starting out. My thoughts and prayers go out to you. And I agree you should get a 2nd and even 3rd opinion before all is said and done. Could you possibly tell us how you managed to prick yourself so others can learn from your situation? For example I have pricked myself from giving a insulin shot to a thin individual in his arm...the needle went through both layers of skin I pinched and I pricked myself. I learned quickly that all thin people get insulin in the belly....

[CardioNRS~DAWN]

:hgu:Hi Sarahwv,

I'm sorry to hear this has happened to you, stay strong, I will remember you in my prayers.:wshgrt:

[tryingtohaveitall]

Many hugs to you and prayers for you, sweetie.

[jesskalpn]

I am so sorry! Please do get a repeat test! You're in my prayers, and as another poster said....Never apologize for venting! That's what this community is for and we are here for you!

[saarein]

Sarah,

I'll keep you in my prayers.

[RN1981]

I am so sorry to hear this. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

#1-Get tested again.

#2-Where the results are reliable or not I would switch to as healthy and organic a lifestyle as you can.

#3-You can still have children and a family! With the advances today you can live a long and healthy life.