The likelihood of being exposed to HIV while providing care to someone living with HIV is extremely rare. By following universal precautions and standard infection control best practices you will be protected, and so will those you care for.
As outlined in the facts about HIV section of this training, HIV is only passed on by certain bodily fluids, and not by providing or receiving personal care.
When providing care and support to people, universal precautions and infection control policies should be adhered to, and managers must ensure training is provided to anyone working within their services.
For tasks that require gloves, there is no need to wear an additional pair, or ‘double gloving’.
People with HIV should not be treated differently to other people receiving care; if they are this would be a case of discrimination.
Emergency protection
PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis for HIV), is a treatment that can stop an HIV infection after the virus has entered a person’s body. It must be taken as soon as possible after exposure but within 72 hours.
PEP is only prescribed under circumstances where there is a likelihood of exposure to HIV, e.g. a sharps injury whilst caring for someone living with HIV who is not taking HIV treatment.
PEP can be accessed from sexual health clinics, or Emergency Departments. They will conduct an assessment to decide if it is appropriate to prescribe PEP.
Staff living with HIV
There is no reason a person living with HIV is not be able to work in any social care role.
The Equality Act 2010 makes certain types of discrimination unlawful. Anyone diagnosed with HIV has the same protections as disabled people, regardless of their health status. Read more about the Equality Act and the workplace.