HomeAnswersInternal MedicinehivWill I get infected if the phlebotomist is not gloved up?

Can I get an infection from the blood test as the phlebotomist was not gloved up?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Medically reviewed by

iCliniq medical review team

Published At August 8, 2022
Reviewed AtDecember 12, 2023

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

In the past two months, I got various blood tests like cardiac enzymes, complete blood tests, cancer markers, etc. It was my first time, and I was worried about catching HIV or other infections through needle pricks.

Kindly help.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understand your concern.

There is no need to worry about infections as the health workers draw the sample with a single-use syringe and in an aseptic condition. They wear gloves to avoid direct contact and sanitize their hands before the procedure. After the procedure, they stick tape to prevent bleeding from the injection site. Also, I would like to know the results of the lab reports, and I hope they are within the normal limits.

Thank you.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Thank you for your reply.

I am worried as the phlebotomist did not wear gloves on one of the hands while drawing the blood sample twice. I have had arrhythmia, but the cardiac enzymes were normal. Tests like echo, MRI, and CT scan were done, and the results were normal. The cardiac enzyme test was repeated after one month; CPK and EBV were higher, but the results were normal when checked again. I am worried if I do have some other serious medical problem. I had consulted two or three cardiologists for the same issue because the first cardiologist said I had mild myocarditis. At the same time, others said there were no findings.

Kindly help.

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

No need to worry about not wearing the gloves even though the phlebotomist was supposed to wear them. From the brief medical history you have explained, I believe that the cause of higher troponin may be due to viral infection. The repeated test results (attachment removed to protect the patient’s identity) were normal, which means that the inflammation of the heart due to infection has resolved. Even the Holter test, which is done for arrhythmia, is normal. If the symptoms reappear again, your cardiologist might suggest repeating the tests. Also, you are unnecessarily taking stress about your health which can alter the test results, especially an increase in the heart rate and rhythm. I would suggest you lower your anxiety in daily life, and if it is not possible by yourself, please visit a doctor and seek counseling about health anxiety. You can take a video or phone consultation with me about the health-related symptoms and anxiety.

Thank you.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Basuki Nath Bhagat
Dr. Basuki Nath Bhagat

Family Physician

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