Needle-stick Guideline Questions & Answers

Updated: Jul 01, 2021
  • Author: Megan A Stobart-Gallagher, DO; Chief Editor: Jeter (Jay) Pritchard Taylor, III, MD  more...
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Questions & Answers

Overview

What are the occupational hazards of an accidental needle-stick?

What is the pathophysiology of infection from an accidental needle-stick?

What is prevalence of occupational transmission of infection from a needle-stick?

Presentation

What should be the focus of medical history following a needle-stick exposure?

What should be included in the physical exam following a needle-stick exposure?

What are the risk factors for needle stick exposure?

Workup

Which lab studies are performed following a needle-stick exposure?

Treatment

How quickly should treatment be initiated following a needle-stick exposure?

What is included in prehospital care for needle-stick exposure?

What is included in emergency department (ED) care for needle-stick exposure?

What is the first step in the CDC guideline for risk assessment of a needle-stick?

What is the second step in the CDC guideline for risk assessment of a needle-stick?

What is the third (final) step in the CDC guideline for risk assessment of a needle-stick?

What is the CDC recommended 28-day prophylaxis against HIV infection following a needle-stick?

How is the need for hepatitis B/C prophylaxis assessed following a needle-stick?

Which specialist consultations may be beneficial following a needle-stick?

Medications

What is the role of medications following a needle stick exposure?

Which medications in the drug class Antiretroviral Agents, Integrase Inhibitor are used in the treatment of Needle-stick Guideline?

Which medications in the drug class Nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors are used in the treatment of Needle-stick Guideline?

Which medications in the drug class Immunizations are used in the treatment of Needle-stick Guideline?

Follow-up

What steps should be taken following treatment for a needle-stick?

Which medications are required following a needle-stick?

How are needle-stick exposures prevented?

What are possible complications of needle-stick exposure?

What is the prognosis of needle-stick?

Who should conduct patient education following a needle-stick exposure?