Case and commentary: Peer-reviewed article: Should patients who receive postexposure prophylaxis after sexual assault be considered for preexposure prophylaxis for hiv?

Abstract

Clinicians who encounter patients after sexual assault must offer competent, compassionate, trauma-informed care that fosters a patient's sense of safety and trust. In this case, a patient presents for HIV postexposure prophylaxis after a second sexual assault by the same perpetrator. This article considers how to balance providing a potentially beneficial intervention and avoiding retraumatization and stigmatization. Clinicians who facilitate patient-centered decision making about preexposure prophylaxis can respond to a patient's immediate needs and support her autonomy.