What is the chance of catching HIV from a single needlestick injury according to the Department of Health?

What is the chance of catching HIV from a single needlestick injury according to the Department of Health?
A . 3 in 1000
B . 10 in 1000
C . 100 in 1000
D . 200 in 1000

View Answer

Answer: A

Explanation:

Although every precaution should be taken to avoid needlestick injury, and treatment should be sought immediately should one occur, the risk of contracting HIV from a needlestick injury is extremely low. The Department of Health calculate the risk, when a medical worker has been stuck with a needle contaminated with HIV+ blood, of contraction as being 0.3%, i.e. it will happen three times in every 1000 incidents.