Risk of HIV /Hep B through blood sample collection second time after 24 hours.

[sidlennon]

I had two days back to back blood sample collection. During second blood test, the lab person tapped the site of previous day's puncture and did a fresh puncture below it using a NEW needle . Could he have caused me any infection like HIV / Hep B if he was positive ?

The previous day puncture was 24 hours old and appeared dry. Before tapping he had also rubbed disinfectant on it. But wasn't wearing gloves on his finger.

I am very scared and concerned.

[GuitarRox]

The only risks for HIV are to have unprotected vaginal or anal sex or share IV needles to inject drugs. That's it. Air and saliva inactivate the virus. A blood collection isn't a risk as there is air exposure. You also mention new needle which, of course, they also use. This is an anxious thought you are having and would not worry about hiv/hep b from having a blood draw.

[sidlennon]

Thanks a lot. Actually my concern is that the lab person TAPPED on the site of previous day's puncture which was 24 hours old and appeared dry. Before tapping he had also rubbed disinfectant on it.

[sidlennon]

And just assuming he had a CUT on his finger, which I didn't notice.

[CurfewX]

GuitarRox gave you the only risks for HIV. Is tapping on a puncture wound listed as a risk? I think you can see that it is not.

[GuitarRox]

As CurvewX said, the only risks for HIV are given. Nothing else like tapping on the area by the nurse is a risk.

[sidlennon]

Thanks to you both. It helps.

[sidlennon]

I was thinking of going in for PEP medicine for 28 days, but will give it a skip. I was consumed by the thought that what if there was a cut on his finger and would have somehow got into my blood through my puncture wound.

[GuitarRox]

That's ridiculous. Just being honest. You are being over the top. Two people have told you no risk. And why. But your anxiety wins the day. Sad you are suffering from this mental health condition and hope you get help for that.

[sidlennon]

I am sorry and grateful that you took the time to answer.  Apologies for being persistent. But I am giving PEP a pass and will be strong

[sidlennon]

Thanks a lot. Actually my concern is that the lab person TAPPED on the site of previous day's puncture which was 24 hours old and appeared dry. Before tapping he had also rubbed disinfectant on it.