Post Exposure (Needlestick) Policy

Policies and Procedures

An occupational exposure is considered an urgent medical concern which requires immediate attention for proper medical management. Do not delay in seeking medical care.

An exposure that might place Health Care Providers at risk for Hepatitis B Virus, Hepatitis C Virus, or HIV infection is defined as a percutaneous injury (e.g., a needlestick or cut with a sharp object) or contact of mucous membrane or non-intact skin (e.g., exposed skin that is chapped, abraded, or afflicted with dermatitis) with blood, tissue, or other body fluids that are potentially infectious.

Definition quoted from the Centers for Disease Control June 29, 2001 "Updated U.S. Public Health Service Guidelines for the Management of Occupational Exposures to HBV, HCV, and HIV and Recommendations for Postexposure Prophylaxis"

Exposure Concerns

Please contact NSU's Sterilization department at (954) 262-7352 or 954-262-1926 for assistance in managing the exposure process.

Note: All employees must complete the First Report of Injury packet and an Incident Report Form when reporting an exposure. These documents are to be forward to the Risk Management office for workers' compensation claims management.

You should seek medical attention immediately following an exposure incident.

Hotlines

Hepatitis Hotline - (888) 443-7232
National Clinician's Postexposure Prophylaxis Hotline - (888) 448-4911

Helpful Links