Health Professional Risk

[ernurse7]

Hi Doctor,

Approx 7 months ago I gave an epi injection to a patient in the thigh..I didn't have a qauze handy so used an alcohol wipe (small 2x2 in size) and not very absorbent to apply pressure because the site was bleeding post injection.  I was wearing the nitrile gloves, however, the thumb I was using to apply pressure to the site started stinging (I realized I had a small skin tear just under the nail at tip of thumb) I was perplexed because I had gloves on as to why I would experience the stinging sensation.  I am worried that maybe there was a tear in my glove (I didn't notice it at the time but was working in a hurry) I also didn't see blood on my hand or fingers.  The alcohol wipe I used was saturated with the patients blood (pt. is hep c pos). I have also heard that HIV can penetrate gloves.?  I mentioned the incident to the ER doc and she said she didn't think I had anything to worry about as far as exposure.  I guess I am a bit worried because I have an infant son and was pregnant when this occured.  I am thinking I may be over anxious about the whole thing but wanted to check with an expert in this area for advice or reassurance.  Thank you so much for your help.  

[Edward W Hook, MD]

I think you have little to worry about.  The purpose of the nitrile gloves is to protect you from viruses such as hepatitis C and HIV.  In addition, unless your skin tear had occurred at just the time you were putting pressure on the patients wound AND the glove leaked, neither of which is probable, you are not at risk.  If this concern is bothering you, for the sake of your own peace of mind, you should go on and get an HIV test. it will be negative and at that time you will have nothing to worry about.  Hope this comment helps.  EWH

[Edward W Hook, MD]

Please.  I will do not deal with "what if" questions.  It is not in your best interest.  EWH

[ernurse7]

What would the hiv risk be if the glove leaked and the finger tear had just occured?