Can I contract HIV from a cut while washing instruments?

Question

Hello doctor,

I was working in a decontamination area in a hospital, and I had a small cut on my hand. The water came inside my gloves while washing the dirty instruments of the operating theatre. Will I get HIV (human immunodeficiency virus)?

Kindly guide.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

First, HIV can survive only for eight to 12 seconds in the outside world. The HIV contaminated instruments and waste material from instruments cannot cause HIV infection, as there will be more than 30 minutes before contacting you. Second, never work with open wounds.

Taking HIV out of the equation, you have the highest chances of HBV (hepatitis B virus) transmission, as it can survive up to 30 days in a harsh environment. Thirdly, as there is an open injury, there are chances of bacterial infection. Finally, you are not at risk of getting HIV, but at risk of getting HBV. You can take the HBsAg vaccine as a preventive measure.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.