Which post-exposure procedure is recommended after a sharps injury in an ASC?

• A. Wait 2 weeks to report
• B. Post-exposure evaluation and possible PEP
• C. Only record if severe
• D. Ignore and continue the procedure

Answer: (B)

Immediate post-exposure management after a sharps injury in an ambulatory surgery center focuses on prompt evaluation and possible HIV post-exposure prophylaxis to reduce the risk of transmission. Reporting the incident right away triggers occupational health review, a risk assessment, and baseline testing for the exposed worker (HIV, HBV, HCV) with source-patient testing if feasible. If the exposure is assessed as having a meaningful risk for HIV, post-exposure prophylaxis should be started as soon as possible—ideally within hours and no later than 72 hours—and continued for about 28 days with follow-up for any medication side effects. Review and update HBV vaccination status for the worker, administering the HBV vaccine if they are not immune. While there is no PEP for hepatitis C, continue appropriate monitoring. Follow-up testing is done at recommended intervals (such as 6 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months) to detect any seroconversion. Proper documentation and coordination with occupational health are essential to ensure safety and regulatory compliance.