Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) A Practice Exam

What should be done if rapid HIV test results are unavailable but NPEP is necessary?

1. Delay NPEP initiation until results are available

2. Initiate medication without delay

3. Provide a referral to another facility

4. Notify the patient's primary care provider

The correct answer is: Initiate medication without delay

Initiating medication without delay is crucial when rapid HIV test results are unavailable but NPEP (non-occupational post-exposure prophylaxis) is necessary. NPEP is a critical intervention aimed at reducing the risk of HIV infection after potential exposure, and timeliness is essential for its effectiveness. The guidelines indicate that NPEP should be started as soon as possible, ideally within 72 hours of exposure. In situations where there is a significant risk of HIV transmission, delaying treatment until test results become available could increase the chance of infection, which could have serious health consequences for the individual. Thus, starting NPEP promptly, regardless of the test result's availability, is the appropriate action to take. General practice suggests that if an individual has been exposed to HIV, the healthcare provider must act swiftly to provide NPEP, as each hour that passes reduces the chances of preventing the infection. Therefore, initiating medication without delay is the best choice in this scenario.