Paralyzed with fear over needle stick

[Faith1970]

I pricked my finger with a 20 gauge needle after inserting the IV. The patient tested HIV negative and Hepatitis C positive. I did not receive PEP. The PEP guidelines state it's not necessary to determine if source is in the window period and that no source person has transmitted HIV to a healthcare worker in the window period to date. I'm not I understand why that is. I was told I could breastfeed if patient tested negative for HIV. According to PEP guidelines, no further testing of me is required because patient tested HIV negative. However, my hospital tests anyways. I tested negative for HIV 6 weeks after needle stick and I tested for my 12 weeks yesterday. I'm scared out of my mind. My baby had a respiratory virus then ear infection and fever and then developed a viral rash after fever was gone. I'm scared I've made her sick. The nurse practitioner who saw her said not to worry. How do you not worry? I just had to talk to someone. I am so anxiety ridden that I can not function. I called in all weekend at work. I don't even want to be a nurse anymore.

[doppelganger2]

If you are truly as worried and anxious about your child being sick because you had a needle stick, have your baby tested for HIV and Hep C to really put your mind at ease.

If you are coming back negative for these tests, I see no reason to suspect that your child got anything from you. Obviously you've done your research and spoken to the appropriate people about this situation, so breath, relax and calm down. Hakuna Matata

[xoemmylouox, ASN, RN]

Your patient was neg for HIV so relax. Hep C is highly unlikely. At this point perhaps seek mental health help. By all of the frantic stress I am sensing you are enduring you are missing out on time with your infant.

[Been there,done that, ASN, RN]

The title of your thread says it all. You have sought the appropriate advice , you are not able to follow it.

Any new mother can easily become hyper vigilant.

Please get additional help to move on.

[Faith1970]

I tested negative for HIV and hepatitis C on my 12 week test. Thank you for the support and kind words.