P12 An audit to assess the use of post-exposure prophylaxis for HIV following sexual exposure in a North Birmingham sexual health centre. (16th June 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Bowes, Alexandra; Arumainayagam, Joseph
• Is Part Of: Sexually transmitted infections. Volume 98(2022)Supplement 1
• Page Start: A31
• Page End: A31
• Publication Date: 2022-06-16
• Subjects: Sexually transmitted diseases -- Periodicals; HIV infections -- Periodicals; 616.951005
• DOI: 10.1136/sextrans-BASHH-2022.59
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1368-4973

Abstract

Abstract : Introduction: In 2015, the British Association of Sexual Health and HIV (BASHH) released guidelines for the use of Post-Exposure Prophylaxis following Sexual Exposure (PEPSE). This audit aims to compare the use of PEPSE at a North Birmingham Sexual Health Centre against the standards set out by BASSH. Methods: One-hundred and one patients were prescribed PEPSE from 1st January 2018 to 23rd June 2020. Baseline HIV test, indication for PEPSE, time between exposure and PEPSE administration, documentation of completing 4 weeks of PEPSE, STI screening and post PEPSE HIV antibody/antigen test were recorded from electronic notes for each patient. Results: The proportion of PEPSE administered within 72 hours of exposure and prescribed within recommended indications met BASHH targets. However, the percentage of patients who received a baseline HIV test and STI testing did not meet recommended targets by up to 31%. Importantly, only 43% of patients had documented completion of PEPSE treatment and 47% received a post-PEPSE HIV test (see table 1 ). Discussion: This audit highlights a significant lack of follow-up for patients receiving PEPSE at the Sexual Health centre. We recommend that a follow-up appointment is booked at the first appointment and this is now a required component of the electronic documentation. We also recommend a reminder text message or call at one week and one day before follow-up appointment. We also recommend staff training to help improve awareness of appropriate tests prior to PEPSE prescription.