Loading...
Postexposure prophylaxis (PEP) for HIV infection is indicated when healthcare is sought within 72 hours of a high-risk exposure to a body fluid known to transmit HIV. Investigators at a Canadian emergency department compared adherence to recommended practices in the management of patients with occupational and nonoccupational exposures. Sexual assaults were excluded.
Of 1972 patient encounters, 69% had occupational exposure and 31% had nonoccupational exposure. Among high-risk exposures, 84% of patients with occupational exposure versus 73% of those with nonoccupational exposure were appropriately given prophylaxis, a significant difference. For low-risk exposures, appropriate management (prophylaxis not given) was similar in occupational an…