A nurse at a community outreach center is speaking with a young adult client who actively injects illicit substances. The client states, "I know sharing needles is dangerous, so I only share the water, cookers, and cotton filters with my closest friends." Which response by the nurse is the most appropriate?
- AWhy do you continue to share the preparation equipment when you already know it is dangerous?
- Sharing any preparation equipment, including water or cotton, can still transmit infections like hepatitis C and HIV.Answer
- CAs long as you are using a new, sterile needle each time, your risk for contracting an infection is removed.
- DI must report this behavior to the health department so they can monitor your risk for infectious diseases.
Answer
The most appropriate response is to inform the client that sharing any preparation equipment, including water or cotton, can still transmit infections like hepatitis C and HIV.
The correct response directly addresses the client's knowledge deficit by providing objective, factual harm-reduction education. Hepatitis C and HIV can be transmitted through microscopic amounts of blood present in shared drug preparation equipment, such as water, cookers, and cotton filters, even if a new needle is used.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Harm Reduction and Injection Safety