Patient's blood splashed to eyes

Nurses General Nursing

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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)

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.

BTDT, this is not true in all states.

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.

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.

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.

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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