Expert: Terry B - 4/8/2008

Question
Hello! I'm a RN and one of my patients had AIDS and Hepatitis C. I was empying her Foley catheter(Murphy Drip) which contained blood, urine and normal saline. Some of the fluids splashed on my face. A couple of droplets on each side of my cheek and one droplet on the bottom of my lip! As soon as it happened i ran to the bathroom and removed the fluids and wash my face and mouth with soap and water. i went to the ER and took one dose of Combivir. My skin was still intact. Do u think i have a huge risk of contracting the virus and Hepatitis C? And also if it did splash into my eye is the risk huge? thanks... next time i will use goggles and a face mask!

Answer
Dear Amy:

Peace, and sorry for your mishap.  The amount of blood and short duration of the exposure argues against probability of HIV transmission; the average risk in occupational exposure is about 0.3 percent.  I am not an expert on Hep C transmission.

If you are doing Post-Exposure Prophylaxis, most regimens with which I am familiar extend beyond a single dose and you should discuss with your physician the recommendations available through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.  I recommend you contact your AIDS Education and Training Center for the most up-to-date information.  

Please contact your physician and AETC immediately and ensure you are receiving the state of practice care.

Best to you and yours,

Terry