Nigerian doctor recounts HIV positive patient attempted transmission attempt
A Nigerian doctor has publicly recounted a frightening encounter with a patient who tested positive for HIV and allegedly tried to infect him with the virus during treatment, raising concerns about patient-doctor safety and misconduct in healthcare settings. The disturbing account was shared on social media by Linda Ikeji Blog today, where the physician described how a patient known to be HIV positive made an attempt to transmit the virus to him while under his care. The doctor said that the incident occurred in a clinical setting during a routine consultation, and he narrowly avoided exposure, prompting reflections on safety protocols for healthcare workers when treating infectious diseases.
According to the doctor’s account, the patient’s actions were deliberate and alarming, underscoring the serious risks medical professionals can face when treating individuals with communicable conditions without strict adherence to safety measures. The physician noted that the experience has heightened awareness about the need for protective equipment, strict infection control procedures, and clear reporting mechanisms when there is potential for intentional harm in clinical environments.
Health experts stress that HIV cannot be transmitted through casual contact or ordinary patient care, and transmission requires specific exposure to infected bodily fluids in a way that bypasses the body’s natural protective barriers. Standard protocols for treating HIV-positive patients involve the use of gloves, sharps safety, and universal precautions to prevent exposure to blood or other infectious fluids, protecting both the caregiver and the patient. Medical workers are trained to use these precautions consistently with all patients regardless of known status.
The doctor’s narrative has reignited discussions around healthcare worker safety and ethical conduct within medical settings in Nigeria. Many health professionals have emphasised that incidents involving deliberate harm are extremely rare but highlight the importance of robust policies and ongoing training to protect staff and ensure quality patient care without compromising safety.
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