Human Immunodeficiency Virus Postexposure Prophylaxis Research Articles

Pre- and Post-Exposure Prophylaxis for HIV in Patients Taking Anti-Seizure Medications

The prevention of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection has recently emphasized the use of pre- and post-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP and PEP), both of which were highly effective in prevention of HIV infection. Since the last published guidance regarding the cotreatment of people with anti-seizure medications (ASM) and antiretroviral treatments (ARTs) in 2012, both fields have numerous new medication options. Historically, cotreatment of HIV and seizures could be challenging with increased risk of virologic failure and barriers in access to health care due to global availability, social determinants of health, and stigma of both HIV and seizures. In this narrative review, we describe the data-driven and expected bidirectional pharmacokinetic (PK) interactions between guideline-based PrEP and PEP treatment and ASM, as well as overlapping side effects. There are many ASMs with no known interaction with PrEP or PEP regimens. The interactions focus on enzyme inducing ASMs, valproate, and lamotrigine. Most prominently, enzyme inducing ASMs lower serum levels of tenofovir-containing PrEP regimens and elements of PEP (dolutegravir, raltegravir, and ritonavir), which increased risk of virologic treatment failure in people with HIV but have unclear clinical significance on the effectiveness of PrEP and PEP. In addition, ritonavir treatment in PEP may significantly lower lamotrigine serum levels even during the 4 weeks of treatment, which may increase risk for breakthrough seizures during PEP and skin reactions after discontinuation of ritonavir. In addition to PK interactions, overlapping side effects are common including osteopenia, hepatic toxicity, and other gastrointestinal effects. This narrative review aims to be a resource for all clinicians prescribing ASMs so that they can create a welcoming environment to enable successful treatment of seizures and reduce the risk of HIV infection in people at risk. In addition, we highlight knowledge gaps and areas of unmet need that can be addressed with future studies.

Experiences of the National Post-Exposure Prophylaxis Hotline (PEPline): Occupational PEP consultation needs and trends, 2014 to 2022

The National Clinician Consultation Center operates the Post-Exposure Prophylaxis Hotline (PEPline), a federally-funded educational resource providing bloodborne pathogen exposure management teleconsultation to US clinicians. Sixty-seven thousand one hundred nine occupational post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) consultations (January 2014 to December 2022) were retrospectively analyzed to describe PEPline utilization and common inquiries addressed by National Clinician Consultation Center consultants. Most calls involved percutaneous incidents (70%); blood was the most common body fluid discussed (60%). Inpatient units were the most common exposure setting (35%) and licensed nursing professionals were the most common category of exposed workers (28%). Of 2,295 calls where workers had already initiated PEP for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) prevention and time to first dose was known, 9% had initiated HIV PEP within 2hours of exposure; almost 80% had initiated HIV PEP between 2 and 24hours; 3% after 24 to 36hours; 5% after 36 to 72hours; and 2% after 72hours. Calls from urgent care providers increased by 10% over time. Overall, more than 90% of callers requested support on risk assessment, including source person testing; other common questions involved PEP side effects and follow-up care. PEPline consultations can help raise awareness about PEP availability and timely initiation, and reduce stigma by addressing common misperceptions about bloodborne pathogen transmission mechanisms and likelihood, particularly regarding HIV.

Uptake and challenges with daily oral pre-exposure prophylaxis among men who have sex with men and transgender women, suburban Yangon, Myanmar.

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is effective for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) prevention in risk groups. We assessed PrEP uptake and 12-month retention among men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women (TGW) in Myanmar during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic and a political crisis. Using prospectively collected data, we assessed the proportion of persons eligible, initiated and retained 12months on PrEP. We calculated HIV and syphilis incidence among those initiated on PrEP. Predictors of compliance to scheduled visits were assessed with fractional logistic regression. Among 652 persons screened between July and December 2020, 85.3% were eligible and 38.8% initiated PrEP. The daily pill burden was the main reason (86.5%) for refusing PrEP. A history of HIV post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) and having an HIV-positive partner not on anti-retroviral therapy (ART) was associated with PrEP uptake (p<0.05). The 12-month retention among those initiating PrEP was 43.0%. Age ≥25y, a history of PEP and having an HIV-positive partner not on ART predicted better compliance with scheduled visits (p<0.05). HIV incidence among PrEP initiators was 3.1 per 100 person-years (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.3 to 7.4) and syphilis incidence was 17.6 per 100 person-years (95% CI 12.3 to 25.1). A PrEP program for MSM and TGW in Myanmar was implemented successfully under difficult circumstances. Alternative strategies are needed addressing PrEP uptake and retention.

Safeguarding strategies and current HIV treatment in the UK

Objectives: This study aims to illuminate contemporary strategies and treatment approaches employed in the United Kingdom (UK) to safeguard against Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) transmission and enhance the well-being of those grappling with Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS). The review contributes to a comprehensive understanding of the nation's ongoing efforts in managing the impact of HIV on public health. Material and Methods: Research, reports, guidelines, and official websites from 2005 to 2024 were searched from the Pubmed database and Bournemouth University's database. English resources were searched using keywords related to HIV risk measures, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), and anti-retroviral therapy (ART). Results: HIV prevention efforts in the UK emphasize education, widespread testing, and targeted interventions. Strategies include promoting safe sex practices, regular testing, and condom use. HIV testing, PrEP, PEP and ART play crucial roles in prevention and treatment, with initiatives focusing on high-risk populations such as men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender individuals. Challenges include regional variations, financial constraints, and social stigma. Conclusions: A holistic and adaptable approach is essential in HIV prevention and treatment in the UK. Education, widespread testing, and tailored interventions for diverse populations are key components. Challenges such as financial constraints and social stigma require sustained efforts and global collaboration. Advancements in PrEP, PEP, and ART offer promising avenues for mitigating the impact of HIV, emphasizing the importance of accessibility and adherence.

Presentations for HIV post-exposure prophylaxis in emergency departments: guideline and recommendations

Patients often present to emergency departments after potential or confirmed exposure to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) asking for recommendations concerning the initiation of post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP). These presentations may occur after occupational as well as non-occupational exposure. PEP entails taking atriple antiretroviral therapy for 28-30days. If taken early (ideally within 2 h, but no later than 72 h) and as indicated, HIV infection can be prevented with ahigh level of probability. Since these presentations occur around the clock, they require basic expertise on the part of the emergency department staff regarding its indication and its side effects as well as standardized procedures in the emergency department to not delay initiation. Patients should present to an infectious disease outpatient clinic or practice specialized in HIV in order to have the indication reviewed by aspecialist and, if necessary, adapted to complex cases with the aim of making individual case decisions. This review article aims to summarize core statements of the 2022 German-Austrian guideline on HIV post-exposure prophylaxis and to give emergency department staff necessary knowledge to safely and correctly begin PEP.

Specialty pharmacy interventions benefit patients receiving HIV postexposure prophylaxis

BackgroundSpecialty pharmacies service many different complex disease states that require high-cost medication, including the treatment of patients prescribed human immunodeficiency virus postexposure prophylaxis (PEP). PEP requires time-sensitive initiation and patient counseling for therapeutic efficacy. ObjectiveThis study aimed to examine all PEP referrals received at a specialty pharmacy and demonstrate how they aided in interventions including assisting in obtaining financial assistance, making clinical interventions, and offering counseling to patients. MethodsThis is an observational retrospective chart review of patients who received PEP from one specialty pharmacy. All patients who filled PEP at the pharmacy between January 1, 2017, and July 1, 2022, were included. Information was collected from documentation provided in the electronic medication record used by the pharmacy. The PEP regimen prescribed were raltegravir (RAL) + emtricitabine/tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (FTC/TDF) and dolutegravir (DTG) + FTC/TDF. ResultsA total of 52 patients were treated with PEP during the measurement period. Patients who received a PEP regimen of RAL + FTC/TDF experienced a total cost savings of $1692.60 and $218.40 for those who were fully insured and uninsured, respectively. Patients who received a PEP regimen of DTG + FTC/TDF experienced a total cost savings of $676.20 and $2725.50 for those who were fully insured and uninsured, respectively. Counseling by a pharmacist was offered to all patients and 74.5% of patients accepted. Pharmacists made clinical interventions on 29.4% of PEP referrals. ConclusionPEP medications are expensive and time sensitive and can require clinical interventions and specific patient counseling. This study indicates that specialty pharmacies can provide and ensure access to care in the areas of financial assistance, patient counseling, and clinical interventions.

Pharmacist Prescribing Models for HIV Pre-exposure and Post-exposure Prophylaxis.

State strategies for pharmacist prescribing exist on a continuum from most restrictive to least restrictive. Using human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) pre-exposure prophylaxis and post-exposure prophylaxis as a case study, there are 3 viable pharmacist prescribing models: (1) population-based collaborative practice agreements; (2) government protocols; and (3) standard of care prescribing. The advantages and disadvantages of these 3 models are reviewed.

Adherence to HIV post-exposure prophylaxis in a specialized service in São Paulo, Brazil

Introduction: The effectiveness of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) depends on adherence to the protocol, which includes taking antiretrovirals (ARVs) and attending visits. We examined the adherence rate to antiretroviral agents and follow-up visits identifying the associated characteristics of adherence and the reasons for not attending HIV PEP consultations in a specialized service in São Paulo, Brazil. Methodology: This was a cross-sectional study with health service users who had an indication for PEP due to sexual exposure in an HIV/AIDS service from April to October 2019. The health service users were followed-up throughout the prophylaxis cycle. Adherence was determined through self-reports on antiretroviral agent use and attendance to follow-up consultations. Results: Association measures were employed to identify adherence-related characteristics. The sample analyzed included 91 users. The mean age was 32.5 years old (SD = 9.8). The largest share was white-skinned (49.5%), men who have sex with other men (62.2%), male (86.8%), and undergraduate/graduate students (65.9%). Adherence totaled 56.7% and health insurance was the associated characteristic (p = 0.039). Work (55.9%), using a private service (15.2%), forgetfulness (11.8%) and considering follow-up unnecessary (11.8%) were the main reasons for not attending the follow-up appointments. Conclusions: Few users do attend HIV PEP consultations. The users without health insurance had the highest adherence percentage whereas work was mentioned as a reason for not attending HIV PEP consultations.

Acquired haemophilia A in southern Switzerland from 2013 to 2019: a case series

Acquired haemophilia A is a rare disease with an annual incidence of 1.48 per million. Based on clinical observations, we suspect a higher incidence in southern Switzerland, and aimed at providing local epidemiological data, and clinical information regarding diagnosis, treatment and outcome in our region. All adult patients with acquired haemophilia A treated between 2013 and 2019 in our facility were included in the present retrospective analysis. We treated 11 patients with acquired haemophilia A between 2013 and 2019, resulting in an annual incidence of 4.5 per million (95% confidence interval [CI] 0-9.0). Median delay from first symptoms to diagnosis was 4.5 days, and the median age at diagnosis was 79 years (range 23-87). Possible causative conditions were: pregnancy (n = 1), polyarteritis nodosa (n = 1), myelodysplastic syndrome (n = 1), chronic human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) (n = 1), and HIV postexposure prophylaxis (n = 1). In five patients no underlying or associated condition was identified. Median activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT)) at baseline was 79 seconds (65-117; ref. value <38 sec), and FVIII:C 2.15% (<1-3.75%). A FVIII:C <1% was present in 4/10 patients. Median FVIII-inhibitor titre was 10.3 BU/ml (2.4-75.0 BU/ml). All patients had bleeding symptoms, 5/10 patients had major bleedings, and 7/10 patients were treated with bypassing agents. All patients received corticosteroids; 7/10 patients received immunosuppressive combination therapy. FVIII levels of ≥50% were achieved after a median of 40 days (8-62). One patient had a severe immunosuppressive therapy-related infection. An 87-years-old woman died for reasons not related to acquired haemophilia A or immunosuppressive therapy. Acquired haemophilia A is a rare disease, but manageable despite the advanced patient age and comorbidities. Its incidence in Southern Switzerland is higher than previously suspected.

Knowledge, attitude, and practice of human immune-deficiency virus (HIV) post-exposure prophylaxis among healthcare workers of governmental hospitals in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

This study aimed to investigate the knowledge, attitude, and practice of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) among healthcare workers in government hospitals in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. A multicenter, cross-sectional study was conducted from March to April 2022. The lottery method of a simple random sampling technique was used to select six government hospitals. Structured, self-administered questionnaires were used to collect the data, which was coded into Microsoft Excel® and then exported to statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) ®Version 26 for further statistical analysis. A large proportion of respondents (51.6%) and 63.6%) reported poor knowledge and practice respectively, regarding PEP for HIV. However, more than half of respondents (54.2%) had a favorable attitude toward PEP for HIV. A significant proportion of respondents had poor knowledge and practice regarding PEP for HIV, even though they had relatively favorable attitudes. Most healthcare workers (68.9%) did not receive any PEP training.

Knowledge, Attitude and Utilization of HIV Post Exposure Prophylaxis among Health-Care Workers in a Teaching Hospital in Enugu State, South East Nigeria

Background: It is impossible to overstate the significance of Human Immunodeficiency Virus Post-exposure Prophylaxis (HIV PEP), which has demonstrably reduced the risk of getting the fatal disease Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS). It is crucial for the public health to understand the effects of an HIV infection in a health care worker (HCW). Because of the risks associated with their jobs, these HCWs are more likely to contract an infection.&#x0D; Aim: The objective of this study was to assess the knowledge, attitude and utilization of HIV PEP among health care workers in Enugu State University of Science and Technology Teaching Hospital (ESUTH), Parklane, Enugu State. &#x0D; Methodology: This study was a descriptive, cross-sectional study. The sample size was 204 HCWs and 200 questionnaires were returned for analysis. The sample was selected by stratified sampling technique. The data was analyzed using statistical packaged for social science (SPSS). &#x0D; Results: The study revealed that majority of the respondents were within the age range of 26-30and 31-35 years (24.5% each). Majority (65.6%) were married and most (44.0%) were nurses. About 89% have heard of HIV PEP. Almost forty-three percent (42.5%) have been accidentally exposed to needle stick injury before but only 39% reported. Even a less percentage (21%) went ahead to take PEP.&#x0D; Conclusion: The study concluded that most of the correspondents were aware of HIV PEP but only a few deemed it necessary to practice what they know. Therefore, there is a great need for health education on the right approach to HIV PEP in this institution and the general population. This will go a long way to help reduce the incidence of HIV infection and improve the utilization of HIV PEP among HCWs in ESUTH.

Occupational blood and body fluid exposure among emergency medical service providers in the eThekwini metropole of South Africa.

Emergency Medical Service (EMS) providers in South Africa are among health care workers (HCW) most at risk of contracting infectious diseases due to occupational exposure to blood and body fluids (BBF). While the austere, dynamic, and challenging nature of the prehospital environment appears to be one of the primary drivers to this risk, the growing prevalence of bloodborne infections within the country; particularly Hepatitis B, C and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), has inevitably compounded the problem. The aim of this study was to investigate the knowledge, practices, and prevalence of BBF exposure among EMS providers in the eThekwini metropole of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. This cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was completed by 96 randomly selected EMS providers who worked for the state-run ambulance service and were stationed within the eThekwini metropole. A total of 41 (42.7%) of the 96 respondents indicated memorable exposure to BBF at some point in their operational career. Exposure appeared to be mostly as a result of needlestick injuries (NSI) (63.4%), followed by BBF exposure into the eyes (19.5%). At the time of exposure, a total of 40 participants (97.6%) were wearing gloves, 22% (n=9) were wearing facemasks, and 9.8% (n=4) were wearing eye protection. Less than half of the respondents (46, 47.9%) were aware of existing EMS espoused BBF exposure policies, and 55 (57.3%) knew about post-exposure prophylaxis for HIV. Majority of the respondents (n=74; 77.1%) indicated that they always recapped needles, and 46.9% (n=45) dispose of sharps containers when completely full. The findings suggest that BBF related knowledge and practices among EMS providers working in the eThekwini metropole may be inadequate, and may increase the risk of blood exposure. In order to improve knowledge, immediate provision of EMS-specific BBF exposure training is required.

Healthcare Professionals' Practice of HIV Post-Exposure Prophylaxis in Clinical Settings in Karachi, Pakistan.

The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is an important public health concern that has become more prevalent in Pakistan in recent decades. Healthcare professionals (HCPs) are frequently exposed to many HIV-infected patients; as a result, they are more vulnerable to HIV infection due to occupational exposure. Hence, the current study was executed to evaluate HCPs’ knowledge, attitude and practice in terms of post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) for HIV. This cross-sectional study was carried out in several clinical and laboratory settings of Karachi and the HCPs involved in treating patients were surveyed using a structured questionnaire. The Shapiro–Wilk test was performed to establish the normality of the variables. Pearson correlation was employed to identify the relationship between the independent variables considering p-values < 0.05 as statistically significant. A total of 578 filled forms were incorporated in the study with a response rate of 72.2%. Physicians and medical students (OR = 1.68; 95% CI = 1.16–2.24; p = 0.001) belonging to private work settings (OR = 1.84; 95% CI = 1.33–2.35; p < 0.003) indicated better knowledge. The majority, 407 (70.4%), of the respondents reported having been exposed to risky occupational circumstances during their professional life; however, 65.7% took PEP for HIV after exposure and only 56.8% completed the entire course. A statistically significant association was observed between experience (p = 0.004, CI = 0.14–0.72), job category (p = 0.0001, CI = 0.16–0.62) and frequency of exposure (p = 0.003, CI = 0.42–11.31) and reporting of occupational exposure. More than half (53.8%) of respondents stated that their institute has a policy for the management of HIV exposures; however, their response was significantly associated with their organization (p = 0.004). The current study shows adequate knowledge revealing a positive attitude among respondents; however, there was a gap between the knowledge and its practical application. Even though many of the HCPs had experienced risky HIV exposure, a lack of reporting was noted in the study.

HIV-Related Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices Research Among College Students - Six Chinese Cities, 2021.

The number of newly diagnosed human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) cases among Chinese youth 15-24 years of age shows an upward trend between 2010 and 2019. This survey is on a larger scale as compared to previous studies. It shows inadequate HIV knowledge - especially on HIV treatment, self-testing, and post-exposure prophylaxis - among college students. A significant gap exists between knowledge and behavior as indicated by the low condom use rate despite a high knowledge level. Findings suggest priorities for future HIV education and awareness creation of existing services. A low condom use rate at sexual debut suggests that HIV prevention education should start early.

860. HIV Post-exposure Prophylaxis Availability at Small and Critical Access Hospitals in the Western Region

BackgroundPost-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is essential to minimize the risk of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) acquisition following an occupational or nonoccupational exposure to potentially infectious body fluids. PEP is most effective when initiated as soon as possible after HIV exposure. Patients in rural areas may rely on small (< 50 beds) and critical access (< 25 beds) hospitals for access to PEP – especially after-hours and on holidays, when outpatient pharmacies are typically closed. However, PEP medications are costly to maintain on a hospital formulary due to unpredictable use and expiration. We hypothesized that PEP availability may be variable and limited at such hospitals. MethodsThe University of Washington Tele-Antimicrobial Stewardship Program (UW-TASP) is comprised of 68 hospitals in Washington, Oregon, Arizona, Idaho, and Utah, most of which are rural and critical access. In August 2020, we surveyed UW-TASP participating hospitals and a convenience sample of other networked rural hospitals in Western states using REDCap, a HIPAA-compliant, electronic data management program. Respondents reported all antimicrobials on their hospital formulary and their hospital size. Data were reviewed by physicians and pharmacists trained in infectious diseases. Preferred PEP regimens, defined by the CDC, for adults and adolescents ≥ 13 years, included combination tenofovir disoproxil fumarate-emtricitabine (TDF/FTC) and either raltegravir (RAL) or dolutegravir (DTG).ResultsResponses from 49 hospitals were received. Six were excluded – one was incomplete and five were excluded due to hospital size ( > 50 beds) (Table 1). The majority of hospitals (40/43, 93.0%) were critical access. Half of the hospitals’ formularies (22/43, 51.2%) contained a preferred PEP regimen. One hospital reported a non-preferred regimen. Most hospitals with a preferred PEP regimen on formulary (18/22, 86.3%) offered TDF/FTC + RAL, and the remainder (4/22, 18.2%) offered TDF/FTC + DTG. ConclusionMany small and critical access hospital formularies do not include antiretroviral agents needed for HIV PEP. Improving urgent access to these critical medications in rural communities is an opportunity for HIV prevention. Disclosures Jehan Budak, MD, Nothing to disclose Chloe Bryson-Cahn, MD, Alaska Airlines (Other Financial or Material Support, Co-Medical Director, position is through the University of Washington)

Post exposure prophylaxis for HIV among healthcare workers due to occupational exposure: a record based study at a tertiary care teaching hospital of Kolkata

Background: Healthcare workers (HCWs) regularly face the risk of exposure to sharp injuries and splashes as an occupational hazard, which presents major risk for acquiring blood-borne infectious agents like human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) which can be minimized by taking post exposure prophylaxis (PEP) measures. There are limited studies from India documenting details of PEP for HIV. This record-based study aimed to determine the occurrence of needle stick injuries (NSIs) and other high-risk occupational exposures to blood and body fluids (BBFs) among HCWs in a tertiary care hospital, Kolkata. We aimed to study details of PEP regimens used among HCWs exposed to HIV.Methods: Hospital record was analyzed from reported incidences of occupational exposures to BBFs occurred during the period of October 2013 to March 2019. Information on self-reported incidence of occupational exposure, and post-exposure management were collected.Results: A total of 105 incidents of occupational exposure were registered during study period. Interns (37, 35.2%) were most frequently exposed, followed by physicians (22, 21.0%) and nurse (21, 20.0%). 88 (83.8%) of the personnel sustained NSIs, and 17 (7.2%) had splashes to skin, mucus membranes. There was no significant difference between subjects with splashes to skin, mucus membranes and needle-stick cases regarding discontinuation of post exposure prophylaxis (PEP) (11.8% versus 19.3%, p&lt;0.548). No cases of sero-conversion were reported.Conclusions: In spite of high incidences of exposures to HIV source, good efficacy of PEP was observed with no sero-conversion. PEP for HIV was well tolerated. Study emphasized the need for creating awareness about timely reporting of incidence.

Administering human immunodeficiency virus post-exposure prophylaxis: challenges experienced by mothers in Lusaka, Zambia.

BackgroundMothers living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) should be guided to practise safe childbirth, provide appropriate infant feeding, return infants for repeat HIV testing and administer for the required period, protective antiretroviral (ARV) medication (post-exposure prophylaxis [PEP]) to their infants. Although several studies have explored challenges related to the prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT), no studies were found that focused specifically on the mother and PEP.ObjectivesTo explore and understand the challenges experienced by mothers in Lusaka, Zambia, whilst providing their children with PEP.MethodsThis study utilised a qualitative methodology and a descriptive design. Fifteen semi-structured individual interviews were conducted with mothers who gave PEP to their infants. Study evaluation made use of Creswell’s six steps of data analysis.ResultsWomen experienced numerous challenges. Challenges of an individual and social nature included ‘negative’ emotions, misconceptions and a lack of understanding of PEP. Post-exposure prophylaxis was sometimes burdensome and partner involvement often limited. Cultural, religious practices and stigma deterred some women from continuing PEP. Healthcare challenges included time-consuming appointments and protracted waiting periods. Clinic organisation was often inefficient and complicated by stock-outs of essential medication such as nevirapine. Healthcare workers were at times stigmatising towards mothers living with HIV and their infants. The counselling support provided by the healthcare workers was felt to be inadequate in the face of the burden of PEP.ConclusionPost-exposure prophylaxis as part of the PMTCT programme is key to eliminating mother-to-child transmission of HIV. Postnatal support for women administering PEP to their children can be enhanced through counselling that is person- and family-centred is culturally sensitive and offers differentiated services that include PEP, integrated mother-and-child healthcare and access to support groups.

“Reclaiming Control” Patient Acceptance and Adherence to HIV Post-Exposure Prophylaxis Following Sexual Assault

Sexual assault is an irrefutable trauma; an insult to the autonomy of the person forced into sexual acts. Sexual assault sequelae range from physical injury and acute traumatic stress, to pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections, including human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). HIV post-exposure prophylaxis (HIV PEP) following sexual assault may decrease the likelihood of HIV transmission. Many patients seeking healthcare post-sexual assault either do not initiate HIV PEP or do not complete the 28-day medication regimen. In this qualitative interpretive description, we interviewed sexual assault patients (N=11) about HIV PEP discussions/reactions, attitudes and understanding related to HIV and PEP, and barriers and facilitators of HIV PEP acceptance and adherence. Participants described a process of losing and reclaiming control throughout post-assault care and follow-up; and how this affected HIV PEP-related decision-making. Most HIV PEP decisions were described as a process of reclaiming control over one outcome while simultaneously losing control of another.

HIV Non-Occupational Post-Exposure Prophylaxis Awareness Among Undergraduate Students of a Private University in South-West Nigeria

Objectives: The Human Immunodeficiency virus causes an infection of public health importance with about 71% of the global burden in Sub-Saharan Africa. In Nigeria, 3.2 million people are living with HIV, and 838,000 - 1.3 million of the cases are found among youths. Although Non- Occupational Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) post-exposure prophylaxis (nPEP) is a safe and efficacious method of HIV prevention, it remains an underutilized prevention strategy in Nigeria. This study aimed to determine the awareness level of nPEP after sexual and other non-occupational exposure to HIV among undergraduate students of a private University. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among 395 undergraduates’ students. Data was collected by pre-tested structured self-administered questionnaires. Data obtained from the study were analyzed using the IBM SPSS Statistics version 20 software program and Frequency distribution tables with percentages and cross-tables were used for data description. Results: About 42.8% were aware of nPEP. Most of the respondents 361 (91.4%) knew that PEP is to be given after HIV exposure risk following sexual intercourse. Although 79.5% of the respondents indicated that they will see their physician after unprotected sexual intercourse and other non-occupational exposure to HIV, the majority neither knows about nPEP initiation time, 247 (62.5%) nor its duration, 286 (72.4%). Conclusions: A low level of awareness was observed among our study participants, therefore, consistent health education and promotion of nPEP will improve its awareness, uptake, and possibly reduce the prevalence of HIV among our youths.

The South African Nurse’s Knowledge of Occupational Human Immunodeficiency Virus Postexposure Prophylaxis in the Era of Controlled and Stable HIV Prevalence

Knowledge is a crucial aspect of nursing. Nurses, just like any other healthcare workers (HCWs), are empowered with the knowledge of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Postexposure Prophylaxis (PEP) protocol to be followed, including post-exposure to blood and body fluids (BBFs). The utilization of HIV PEP demonstrated its capabilities to prevent HCWs from HIV infections. However, the practice in healthcare settings remains a challenge, as many HCWs do not adhere to the protocol. This study investigated how knowledgeable nurses are about HIV PEP in the era of controlled and stable HIV prevalence. Ninety-four nurses completed a self-administered questionnaire to provide information. A biostatistician assisted with data analysis, using Microsoft Excel converted to the STATA 13 format. Most (77.0%) were female with a mean age of 30 ± 9 years. The degree of knowledge was low, although the results showed that 90.43% of nurses had been informed about HIV PEP. Eighty (84%) did not know where to access HIV PEP, and (55.32%) were unaware of HIV PEP guidelines. A comparison between knowledge and work experience revealed that those with five years and less experience are less knowledgeable. There is a need to improve nurses’ knowledge of HIV PEP to reduce the risk of HIV acquisition from work-related activities.