Needlestick and occupational exposure to infections: a compendium of current guidelines.

Needlestick and occupational exposure to infections is a constant threat in dental practice. Many blood-borne infections, including human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, hepatitis B and hepatitis C, may be contracted through this route. We provide here a useful compendium for dental practitioners on current guidelines available to obviate such threats, as well as a simple flowchart on prophylactic measures that could be taken after an accidental exposure.