HIV infection in health professionals
Health professionals are not considered at high risk for HIV infection, even though they come into contact with infected blood or body fluids-most people who are exposed to HIV this way do not become infected.

The chances of becoming infected after being stuck or cut with an instrument contaminated with HIV-infected blood are about 1 in 300.

The chances of becoming infected if HIV-infected blood is splashed in the eye, nose, or mouth are about 1 in 1,000.

There probably isn't much risk of getting HIV if contaminated blood comes into contact with intact skin. However, the risk may be higher if contaminated blood touches cut, scraped, or broken skin.

The degree of risk depends on:

How much blood the person is exposed to.

The amount of HIV present in the blood. People who have symptoms of early HIV infection and those who are very sick with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) tend to have greater amounts of HIV in their blood.

Whether the person seeks treatment with medications, such as zidovudine (ZDV).

It is not yet clear whether starting treatment immediately after a job-related exposure reduces the risk of developing HIV. Before starting treatment, it is a good idea to weigh the risks of medication side effects with your risk of infection.

Protect yourself from accidental exposure by disposing of sharp objects properly and wearing protective gloves, gowns, and eye and face protection. It is likely that work guidelines are available that instruct you what to do if you are exposed to HIV. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the following precautions:

Immediately following an exposure to blood:

Wash needle sticks and cuts with soap and water.
Flush splashed blood from the nose, mouth, or skin with water.
Wash your eyes with a steady stream of clean water, saltwater solution (saline), or a sterile irrigant.

Do not squeeze a puncture wound or cut or wash the affected area with antiseptics or bleach.

Following any blood exposure:
Report the exposure to the department responsible for managing exposures, such as occupational health or infection control. Prompt reporting is essential. In some cases, medication treatment may be recommended and should be started preferably within 1 to 2 hours or as soon as possible.

Discuss the possible risks of infection with the hepatitis B or hepatitis C virus with your health professional. People who work in the health care industry should be vaccinated against hepatitis B. The vaccine is safe and effective in preventing hepatitis B.