Can you use a vacutainer needle without a safety lock on a different patient if its already been used on someone else? Also, is there a risk that the blood might clot in the needle, causing it not to work properly? What are the chances of someone getting HIV if blood is accidentally drawn with a needle that's already been used? Even if the blood is flowing out and not in, is there still a risk of HIV transmission?

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

Dr Anshul Maheshwari

General Practitioner

MBBS
5+ Yrs

Consult Now

kindly don't use contaminated needles or Vacutainer's and follow proper sterilized methods . Yes, there is a chance of transmission of various infections not only HIV. There are many other infections as well.

Dr. Anshul Suggests...

Consult a Infectious Disease specialist

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Answered 04/07/2025

More Infectious Disease Health Queries

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I'm in Bangalore and I need to get idrv. I managed to get some when I was at home, but I still need more doses. I'm worried because it seems like many private hospitals here might not have it. Do you know where I might be able to find it?

Visit nearest government hospital,there you will definitely get it.

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

I'm really worried about my 60-year-old relative who's been dealing with TB for months now. The disease has spread to her brain, lungs, and liver, and I'm really not sure what the best course of treatment would be for her. Could you help me understand what options we have to help her get better?

there's a specific treatment for tuberculosis,consult a pulmonologist and start treatment

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

I'm currently on medication for lymph node tuberculosis, and it's been around 2 and a half months. Recently, I've noticed that the nodes in my abdomen have become enlarged, whereas before it was just the ones in my neck and groin. I'm a bit worried and was wondering how long I might have these enlarged nodes and when this treatment course will be done. Can you help explain what's going on?

Enlarged lymph nodes can persist throughout TB treatment, but they typically start to shrink within 3-6 months; the standard treatment course for lymph node TB is 6-9 months, but it may vary depending on your response to treatment, so consult your doctor to assess your progress and determine the best course of action.

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

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Disclaimer: Answers on Apollo 247 are not intended to replace your doctor advice. Always seek help of a professional doctor in case of an medical emergency or ailment.