A forensic nursing protocol for initiating human immunodeficiency virus post-exposure prophylaxis following sexual...

The use of human immunodeficiency virus post-exposure prophylaxis (HIV PEP) should be considered in the care of sexual assault patient populations. In order to effectively implement HIV PEP following sexual assault, healthcare providers need to have a working knowledge of HIV transmission risk factors following a sexual exposure and protocols for initiating HIV PEP. Being able to implement evidence-based practices that address each of these factors is paramount to successful prevention of HIV transmission following a sexual assault exposure. Most healthcare practitioners, however, lack the specialized knowledge needed to address these issues in the expeditious manner necessitated by a potential HIV exposure.

This paper is designed to provide healthcare providers with a basic understanding of HIV transmission risk factors and the knowledge and skills needed to effectively implement HIV PEP following a sexual assault exposure.