Abstract

LOSCOS LOPEZ, A.; COLOMER RUBIO, E.; MARCO UBEDA, M. F.  and  BEL REVERTER, M.. Steps to follow in case of a biological accident  . Medifam [online]. 2002, vol.12, n.9, pp.16-35. ISSN 1131-5768.

Transmission of the human immunodeficiency v i rus (HIV), hepatitis B virus (HBV) or hepatitis C virus (HCV), from a seropositive patient to a health c a re worker, can occur by accidental pricking with a needle or by wounds caused by cutting instruments. Although these exposures are not frequent , their medical and legal implications for sanitary personnel are important. Recommendations of post-exposure prophylaxis should be available to all health care workers with an assistencial function, because of the risk of transmission of contagious diseases with high morbi-mortality and the necessity of having a structural secuence of action. With this objective we performed this review and update of the "steps to follow in case of a biological accident", focussing on practical issues.

Keywords : Human immunodeficiency virus; Hepatitis B virus; Hepatitis C virus; Health care worker; Occupational exposure.