Patient's blood splashed to eyes

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Hello ... I am a nurse working in AED .... when I did a suture to a patient last day ... Her blood accidentally splashed and sprayed to my eye ( I didnt wear googles)... I immediately washed with water and informed my supervisor and did blood test. But the source refused blood test strongly and said she was healthy. When I looked at her history and its just hypertension.

Seems the risk is very low for contacting Hep C and Hiv, but I still get very anxious and wanna know how can I reduce the feeling? anyone could help? (will hv blood test 3 month later)

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Are you sure she cannot be required to have her blood drawn?

It may vary, but in my health provider facility, there are signs posted stating that this is a requirement if an employee has an exposure.

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BTDT, this is not true in all states.

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Specializes in Critical Care, ED, Cath lab, CTPAC,Trauma.

If you look at the tags it looks like they might be from another country. They also used a NON US name for the ED.

OP....the US CDC (Centers for Disease control) might be useful. CDC - Bloodborne Pathogens - Occupational Exposure FAQs - Infection Control in Dental Settings - Oral Health

http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/bbp/

I gave you dental as they frequently get splashed. You should always have goggles on...or buy a pair of glasses with clear lenses and wear them.

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Specializes in Complex pedi to LTC/SA & now a manager.

Since they referred to the dept as A&E I suspect OP is in the UK and thus regulations and requirements differ.

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Specializes in Inpatient Oncology/Public Health.

When I practiced in Texas, patient testing in the event of healthcare provider exposure was included in the general consent. When I moved to NY, I was appalled to find that was not the case in my new state and a separate consent is needed at the time of exposure . I have seen patients refuse this testing, despite all the implications of that.

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Most certainly Grn Tea.. that's why I hope OP explores the legal requirements, where ever they are located.

I had an exposure from a psych patient pulling out my hair. I was the one that declined any follow up draws( 9 months of sticks). I was questioned as the one with the PROBLEM. Questioned maybe I was already infected and knew it.

Boggles my mind that the patient can decline .. when the healthcare provider is the one in danger.

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