HIV antibody testing in hospitalized patients

We retrospectively reviewed the charts of 190 hospitalized patients who had human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) antibody testing at our medical center in 1986 and 1987. From 1986 to 1987, HIV antibody testing increased fourfold based on total hospital discharges. Nine patients (5%) tested positive by enzyme immunoassay and the Western blot method. No risk factor for HIV infection was identified in 30% of cases. Documentation of patients' consent for testing was found in 14% of cases. We conclude that HIV antibody testing of hospitalized patients has increased. However, the indication for testing is often not clear by chart review, and consent for testing is poorly documented in the absence of a formal hospital policy requiring consent before testing. Further physician education and establishment of hospital policies addressing these important aspects of HIV antibody testing are indicated.