Question 86

Report the exposure to the supervisor.

Immediately reporting the exposure to the supervisor is essential following a needlestick injury, especially when it involves a patient with HIV. This action initiates the appropriate institutional protocols for managing exposure and ensures that the necessary medical evaluations and interventions can be promptly provided.

A) Report the exposure to the supervisor.

This option is correct as it is critical for the phlebotomist to inform their supervisor right away. Reporting allows the healthcare facility to follow its exposure control plan, which is crucial for ensuring the safety of the staff and patients. Timely reporting also facilitates appropriate medical treatment and testing for the affected employee.

B) Report the exposure to the CDC.

While reporting to the CDC may be necessary for statistical purposes or public health tracking, it is not the immediate action required after a needlestick injury. The first step must always be to notify a supervisor to ensure proper medical and procedural responses are implemented without delay.

C) Send the patient for further STI testing.

This option is not required immediately after a needlestick injury. While testing the patient may be part of a broader response, the first priority should be to address the injury and ensure the phlebotomist receives the necessary follow-up care. The patient's testing will be managed through established protocols, but it is not the immediate responsibility of the phlebotomist.

D) Save the collection device for future evaluation.

Although retaining the collection device may be useful for certain investigations or claims, this action is not the immediate priority following a needlestick injury. The health and safety of the phlebotomist are paramount, and reporting the incident should take precedence over preserving equipment.

Conclusion

Reporting the exposure to the supervisor is the only correct immediate action required after a needlestick injury involving a patient with HIV. All other options, while potentially relevant in a broader context, do not address the immediate need for medical assessment and institutional response. Prioritizing the safety and health of the affected employee is essential in preventing further complications and ensuring proper follow-up.