Question

While caring for a client, the nurse experiences a needle stick injury. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

A. Complete an incident report.
B. Request the risk manager obtain consent for HIV testing from the client.
C. Wash the site of injury with soap and water.
D. Consent to postexposure treatment with antiretroviral medications.

Answer 1

The nurse should first wash the site of injury with soap and water. They should then complete an incident report and seek further medical advice.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the event of a needle stick injury, the nurse should first wash the site of injury with soap and water. This is important to reduce the risk of infection. After washing the site, the nurse should then proceed to complete an incident report and seek further medical advice, including consent for HIV testing and postexposure treatment with antiretroviral medications, if necessary.