Stressing about the antenatal testing ...... again!!

[mosschops30]

When I had ds and was offered the HIV testing it freaked me out. Like many people I'd had a 'fun' time in my twenties which I thought was going to come back to haunt me. Thankfully the test was negative.

Now pg again and just had bloods done. Since the last test I have had two needlestick injuries (one that I didnt even declare) and an eye splash.
Even though the two patients involved were tested (although Im not convinced the splash was tested) and negative, Im still nervous about it.
I woke up last night having dreamt about results and its on my mind all the time.
I know there are lots of you who know loads about this so any reassurance would be good thanks

You know the chances of you having contracted anything are tiny and that you are far more likely to get knocked over by a bus than have this sort of thing happen to you. I'm guessing you don't dream about buses though?

I'm sure your results will be clear - but worst case - if they weren't then it is VITAL for you and your baby to know now rather than later. That's the logic of having the tests in your situation - but don't fret - having the test doesn't give you the virus iyswim.

Yes thanks NL I know the risks are minimal but it doesnt stop me stressing.

I think the worst thing for me is that it would be on a computer system in work, someone I know took my blood, Im wise enough to know that people live with HIV and there are drugs to minimise the risks to your baby, but that stigma still continues in some narrow minded people.

I see your point but I do think even the most narrow minded of people would have nothing but sympathy for a person infected whilst helping the sick. Anything on your work sysytem is of course as confidential as if it applied to any patient and I think that would be respected - though of course you do get the odd big mouth. I hope you get the results soon. Regarding the eye splash - are shields or goggles not standard in your area? I work (admin/manager not clinical) in a haemodialysis unit and they are used by staff but not all - don't know why not. May have to ask.

yes they are but unfortunately I wasnt told this at the time because my mentor (I was on a student placement) didnt wear one. But I should have checked. I always wore one after the incident, but like shutting the barn door really!

I am going to look for my results on the computer on monday so I dont have to wait, the mw said would take 3 weeks to get results back to me by letter

Can I suggest you ask another staff member to look up your results. My trust's policy is that staff should not access their own records (though I'm sure lots do ) I don't think it's good practice. Could you ask one of the midwives in clinic just to do it with you as a professional courtesy - or a colleague if you have somebody you would be comfortable with?

Hope you are ok

Mosschops, how are you getting on?

thanks both, I got my results yesterday and they were fine
I slept better than I had for days!

Hurrah. Well done, and here's to a stress free rest of preg. xx

Just seen this - that's great news

thanks