needlestick injury (risks of HIV infection)

Last reviewed 01/2018

A study of 3000 incidents where individuals were exposed to HIV puts the risk of seroconversion from a contaminated needlestick at 0.3%.

The risk for exposure to mucous membranes or disrupted skin was slightly less. Contamination of the conjunctiva was associated with a slightly higher risk.

Reference:

  • Prophylaxis after occupational exposure to HIV. (1997). Editorial. BMJ. 315, 557-8.