SoScared

I really wish my hospital allowed that, especially when the source patient is high risk. Just like any other procedure, patients always have the right to refuse the blood draw. If they do, we can still test them for HBV/HCV if the lab already has previously drawn blood, but we require informed consent to run an HIV test regardless of the situation.

Yes. After cleaning the wound, I reported it immediately and received PEP within an hour.

Today I had a patient that was brought to the ER following a heroin overdose. She was extremely combative after being given Narcan. While I was trying to place an IV, she suddenly jerked her arm back and I ended up sticking my hand with the contaminated needle. She refused to give consent for an HIV test. With her history of IV drug use, I am freaking out. I am also pregnant and am so worried about the potential exposure to my baby. Has anyone else ever experienced a similar situation where a patient refused to consent to an HIV test following a needlestick? I could really use some advice and encouragement right now. I can't believe I did this. I feel so stupid and I'm so mad at myself