RISK FOR OCCUPATIONAL TRANSMISSION OF HUMAN-IMMUNODEFICIENCY-VIRUS TYPE-1 (HIV-1) ASSOCIATED WITH CLINICAL-EXPOSURES - A PROSPECTIVE EVALUATION

Combining our results with those of other prospective studies, the risk for HIV-1 transmission associated with a percutaneous exposure to blood from an HIV-1-infected patient is approximately 0.3% per exposure (95% CI, 0.13% to 0.70%); the risks associated with occupational mucous membrane and cutaneous exposures are likely to be substantially smaller. These data support the use of barrier precautions and suggests a need for strategies that change health care providers' attitudes and behaviors.