Learning Objective #1: Describe the learning needs of health care professionals as they relate to disclosure and occupational exposure to HIV/AIDS

Learning Objective #2: Describe interventions for educating health care professionals and emergency response employees on the importance of a timely response to occupational exposure to HIV/AIDS

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In many states there is new legislation related to confidentiality, release of information and protocols for treatment for accidental HIV occupational exposure. This study examined the self-reports of both hospital infection control nurses and emergency response employees in regards to education about rights and responsibilities of patients, institutions and individuals. Surveys were sent to seventy institutions and emergency response employees in the mid west area. Over forty-seven percent of the surveys were returned. Findings indicated that there is an overwhelming need for education at all levels related to this topic. In addition, there is a dire need for clarification of rules and regulations (many that vary state to state). Both nursing and patient implications related to this research are vast. Not only are host patients rights not being protected, the rights to treatment and information of the injured person are being violated. Infection Control nurses and ERE's alike must be educated as to the importance of rapid response and access to information so that HIV prophylaxis can be started while it still has a chance of preventing infection in those with accidental occupational exposure.