Risk of HIV

 Q: While putting an arterial line in an HIV patient blood splashed on the resident's arm. Intact skin is an effective barrier against HIV infection. 

A) True 

B) False

Answer: A

Most HIV risks come from a breach of skin. Intact skin is an effective barrier against HIV infection. Exposure to blood with intact skin does not require post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP). Moreover, stool, urine saliva, sputum, sweat, tears, urine, or vomitus are not a risk for HIV even with a breach in the skin as far there is no blood is involved. 

Besides blood - semen, vaginal secretions, CSF, pleural, peritoneal, pericardial, and amniotic fluids are considered hazardous with a breach in skin integrity.

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References:

1. Panlilio AL, Cardo DM, Grohskopf LA, et al. Updated U.S. Public Health Service guidelines for the management of occupational exposures to HIV and recommendations for postexposure prophylaxis. MMWR Recomm Rep 2005; 54:1. 

2. Kuhar DT, Henderson DK, Struble KA, et al. Updated US Public Health Service guidelines for the management of occupational exposures to human immunodeficiency virus and recommendations for postexposure prophylaxis. Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2013; 34:875.