Post Exposure Management of Bloodborne Pathogens
 
Dr. Anne Zaia’s presentation covers post-exposure management of bloodborne pathogens, emphasizing rapid assessment, timely treatment, and clear counseling. A true exposure requires both potentially infectious material—such as blood, visibly bloody fluids, semen, vaginal fluids, or certain sterile body fluids—and a portal of entry. Saliva, urine, feces, vomit, sweat, and tears are generally not considered bloodborne pathogen risks unless visibly bloody. Human bites usually are not bloodborne exposures unless skin is broken and blood is present.
Immediate response includes washing wounds with soap and water, irrigating mucous membranes, removing contaminated contact lenses, reporting promptly, and avoiding harmful practices such as squeezing wounds or using bleach, peroxide, or betadine. When indicated, HIV post-exposure prophylaxis should begin as soon as possible, ideally within two hours, and generally no later than 72 hours. Current guidance favors a well-tolerated, once-daily three-drug regimen, with follow-up at 72 hours to assess adherence and side effects.
The presentation stressed the importance of hepatitis B vaccination and documentation, since hepatitis B is easier to transmit than HIV or hepatitis C. Baseline and follow-up testing should be performed for HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C as appropriate. Clear risk communication, reassurance, and mental health support are essential parts of care. Health Watch USA Meeting^sm, June 17, 2026. https://youtu.be/wZzM1SFf6QY