Abstract
Dermatologists and their staff are at risk for needlestick injuries and exposures to body fluids. Despite the availability of treatment to reduce the risk of blood-borne infection, many exposures go unreported. This paper identifies current recommendations and the specific details for response to occupational exposures to HIV, hepatitis B virus, and hepatitis C virus in the dermatology office. Issues surrounding each virus are discussed individually, and a summary step-by-step algorithm of how to proceed in the event of an occupational exposure is presented. In addition, a focused Practice Improvement Activity that is based on this paper and provides Maintenance of Certification credit has been developed. To view and participate, visit https://secure.dataharborsolutions.com/abdermorg/.
Original language | English (US) |
---|---|
Journal | Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology |
DOIs | |
State | Accepted/In press - 2017 |
Keywords
- Hepatitis B
- Hepatitis C
- HIV
- Needlestick injuries
- Occupational exposures
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Dermatology