Minnesota Dental Jurisprudence Practice Exam

What should be done when a patient has been exposed to blood or bodily fluid of a healthcare worker?

1. The patient should be referred to a specialist

2. The patient should be informed of the incident and take a serologic test

3. The patient should wait for symptoms before taking any action

4. The patient should be reassured and monitored for a month

The correct answer is: The patient should be informed of the incident and take a serologic test

The correct response is to inform the patient of the exposure incident and recommend a serologic test. This course of action is critical for several reasons. When a patient comes into contact with blood or bodily fluids from a healthcare worker, there is a potential risk of transmission of infectious diseases, such as HIV or hepatitis. By informing the patient, healthcare providers ensure that they are aware of the risk and can take necessary precautions to protect their health. A serologic test is essential because it helps determine if there has been any transmission of infectious agents. It allows for timely diagnosis and management of any potential infections, which is crucial in minimizing health risks to the patient and preventing further transmission within the community. In contrast, referring the patient to a specialist may not address the immediate need for awareness and testing, waiting for symptoms to appear could lead to a delay in necessary interventions, and merely reassuring the patient without action could result in serious health consequences. Prioritizing awareness and immediate testing is the most effective and responsible approach in this situation.