Lab test

[Fish]

Today I got labs drawn for a post exposure follow up(I'm good) However, I was looked at like a druggy criminal by the volunteer who registered me. I ask for an HIV and Hep panel test atleast once a year when I get my yearly check up. And always get the same look.

This has nothing to do with my question however, my question is. Do you get tested for the diseases listed above ever? Even if you have not had an exposure. I have always been under the assumption of due to the nature of the job, I owe to myself, family, friends to be tested and be safe. I get tested once a year, this was my first exposure so I recieved a few more test than normal.

According to CDC the amount of Medics and EMTs who have contracted HIV or hep in the Healthcare setting, is extremely low. The occurances are more common in nursing and pyshicians.

 

[MedicBender]

I get hep-c and HIV at my yearly check ups. My doctor knows I'm in EMS and he recommends it. Plus like you said, even though the infection rate in EMS provides is low, I still owe it to my loved ones. Really don't care what the idiots at the blood draw place think of me, I know I'm not some druggie.

 

[BedpanCommando]

Every year for the last 22 years. That reminds me it's almost time.

 

[Sodapop]

Yep every year and also get vaccinations updated as well. Granted not all are yearly but Doc knows my line of work and keeps a check to make sure all is up to date and that I also have baseline results so if I do get an on job exposure I can show history of clean results prior.