POST EXPOSURE PROPHYLAXIS IN DENTAL CLINICS- A REVIEW

Occupational exposures are common among dentists, physicians and other health care professionals as they are in direct connection with blood and other body fluids. Accidental exposure to the blood borne pathogens Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) and Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) may occur through injury by sharp instruments and needles and exposure of mucous membrane to blood and other potentially infectious body secretions. This article deals about those who are at risk, factors that influence their risk, do’s and don’ts of the exposed, their management and medications. KEYWORDS: HIV, HBV, HCV, exposure, risk.