HIV Postexposure Prophylaxis (PEP) in a Nigerian Tertiary Health Institution
Onyedum, C.C.; Chukwuka, C.; Iyoke, C.A.; Omotola, O.Funsho.
Journal of the International Association of Physicians in Aids Care 10(3): 171-175
2011
ISSN/ISBN: 1545-1097 PMID: 21368009 DOI: 10.1177/1545109710397893Document Number: 217623
Use of PEP drugs is useful in preventing seroconversion following accidental occupational or nonoccupational exposures, thereby limiting further spread of HIV. This study aims to evaluate the clinicodemographic characteristics of patients accessing PEP services in a tertiary health institution. This was a retrospective review of patients who obtained postexposure prophylaxis from the HIV clinic of a University Teaching Hospital in Nigeria. A total of 116 clients sought for PEP services during the study period. The commonest setting of exposure was needle injury (44.8%). Half of the clients presented within 24 hours following exposure. Being a male and knowing HIV status of source patient independently increased the likelihood of early presentation following exposure (P < .05). None of the patients that obtained the PEP drugs came for follow-up visits. Conclusion/Recommendation: Late presentation for PEP services following exposure means that more awareness needs to be created to facilitate early presentation.