The awareness of postexposure prophylaxis for HIV infection following sexual exposure in emergency departments in a regional HIV network.

The introduction of UK clinical guidelines in 2006 set clear standards for the provision of postexposure prophylaxis for HIV following sexual exposure (PEPSE) to patients who present to health-care settings. However, some patients have reported wide inequities in provision of PEPSE. We used a questionnaire to evaluate staff awareness and provision of PEPSE in various clinical situations in three major emergency departments (EDs) in the Wessex region of the UK. Thirty-three doctors and 50 nurses completed the questionnaire. There was a general lack of awareness regarding local protocols, availability of postexposure prophylaxis (PEP) packs and whom to contact for advice. Knowledge about PEP provision varied according to clinical scenario but was better among senior medical staff. The deficits in awareness and knowledge of PEPSE among ED staff highlighted in this study raises concerns about patients' access to this intervention. We plan to implement local training to address these issues and raise awareness of the local genitourinary medicine/HIV services as a source of advice.