FCEM2-0901

A 36 year old man has arrived at the Emergency Department seeking treatment for a deep cut on his leg. He is by himself, and before examining the wound, he warns you to ‘be careful’ and reveals that he recently tested positive for HIV. He suspects that he contracted the virus after engaging in an extramarital affair. The nurse then approaches and asks if it is permissible for his wife to enter the room. He informs you that his wife is unaware of his diagnosis and he wishes to keep it that way. You observe that his wife appears to be in the early stages of pregnancy.
In addition to providing appropriate medical care for the wound, what steps should you take?