BBV Testing and Consent Procedures

Obtaining Information from the Source Patient

A designated doctor must gather relevant information from or about the source patient concerning possible indicators of blood-borne virus (BBV) infection. This includes:

• Risk Factors: Assessing any risk factors that may indicate a potential BBV infection.
• Previous Test Results: Reviewing results of previous tests for HIV, Hepatitis B (HBV), and Hepatitis C (HCV).

Consent for BBV Testing

The source patient should be asked to consent to BBV testing for infections including HIV, HBV, and HCV. This involves:

• Pre-Test Discussion: Engaging in a thorough discussion with the source patient about the testing process and its implications.
• Informed Consent: Obtaining fully informed consent before proceeding with any tests. In most cases, consent for testing is rarely withheld when handled properly.

Balancing Health Interests

In some situations, it may be necessary to balance the health interests of the exposed healthcare worker or employee with those of the source patient. This involves deciding whether to test a blood sample already obtained from the source patient for evidence of infection.

When making such decisions, the doctor should adhere to the guidance provided in the General Medical Council’s Serious Communicable Diseases guidelines. The doctor must be able to justify their course of action appropriately.

Conclusion

Ensuring the proper handling of consent and testing procedures for BBVs is crucial for safeguarding both the exposed individuals and the source patient. Adhering to established guidelines and maintaining transparency in consent discussions are essential for effective management.