Updated Recommendations for the Management of Health Care Personnel Occupationally Exposed to Human Immunodeficiency Virus

In August 2013, the U.S. Public Health Service updated its recommendations for the management of health care personnel (HCP) who experience occupational exposures to blood or other body fluids that might contain human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) (^{Kuhar et al., 2013} ). Although the principles of exposure management remain unchanged, the guidelines for recommended HIV postexposure prophylaxis (PEP) regimens and the duration of HIV testing for exposed personnel have been updated.

This report reaffirms that preventing exposures to blood and body fluids (i.e., primary prevention) is the most important strategy for preventing occupationally acquired HIV infection. The report emphasizes the need for both employers and employees to ensure compliance with standard precautions, including access to and consistent use of personal protective equipment, appropriate work practices, and work practice controls. The guidelines describe appropriate management after a workplace exposure as important to workplace safety.

The new guidelines emphasize the importance of prompt reporting and management of occupational exposures and expert consultation in management of exposures. Adherence to recommended HIV PEP regimens when indicated for exposures, monitoring of...