Question on testing

[rue291]

Hi Doctors,

I had made this post several months back: http://www.medhelp.org/posts/HIV-Prevention/Accidental-penetration/show/1419953

I got an HIV test for it. It was a rapid fingerstick. The result was negative. But I have a question, why does the clinician disinfect the finger before making the fingerstick? Is it because bacteria/viruses/germs on the finger can skew the results?

Thank you.

[H. Hunter Handsfield, M.D.]

I hope the same thing.  In any case, please note the MedHelp rule that permits no more than 2 questions every 6 months on a professionally moderated forum (see terms and conditions); no more before mid-September.

[rue291]

Doctor Handsfield:

Thank you for taking the time to answer my question. That reassurance has eliminated my residual fears.

Don't take offense to this, but I hope I never have to post here again.

All the best.

[H. Hunter Handsfield, M.D.]

It became obvious in the follow-up comments of your previous thread that there was no penetration and you were at no risk for HIV and you did not need testing.  But in any case, your negative test is proof you were not infected.  The fingerstick tests are foolproof.  The finger is cleaned to reduce the risk of catching a skin infection; the test would be just as reliable with or without disinfecting the finger before testing.

HHH, MD