What should a nurse practitioner do if they suspect a patient has had potential HIV exposure?

In cases where a nurse practitioner suspects that a patient has had potential exposure to HIV, the most appropriate action is to prescribe medications regardless of the patient’s financial status. This approach is crucial because early intervention with post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) can significantly reduce the risk of HIV infection when administered within a specific time frame after exposure.

Delaying treatment for financial reasons can have serious health implications for the patient, potentially resulting in permanent infection. Providing medications focuses on the health and well-being of the patient first, ensuring they receive necessary care without barriers. This aligns with the ethical responsibilities of healthcare providers to prioritize patient needs and promote health outcomes.

Additionally, simply advising the patient to watch for symptoms would not be sufficient action, as symptoms can take time to appear and may lead to delayed treatment. Referring the patient to another provider could also result in unnecessary delays, preventing timely and effective intervention. Therefore, immediate treatment with prescribed medication is the essential action in this scenario.