1. Check source patient for HCV antibody. If positive for HCV antibody then get HCV RNA PCR.

For Health Care Worker stuck with PCR(+) patient:

1. Check HCW for HCV antibody (if positive they've been exposed somewhere else).
2. HCV antibody, HCV RNA and aminotransferases measured at 6 weeks, 3 and 6 months.
3. If HCV RNA positive, repeat 1 week later, followed by monthly if still positive x 6 months.

For Health Care Worker stuck by Antibody(+)/PCR(-) patient:

1. Check HCV antibody at 3 and six months in HCW.

If PCR not obtained on source patient:

1. HCW should be followed as though needle stick was a high risk.

 

UWMC April 6, 2000