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Is HIV Transmission Possible Through Used Glass Slides?

Posted on Wed, 9 Nov 2016

Question: Today I taken my wife for HB % blood test. in Lab they have dotted with needle on tip of the finger. Later rubbed the finger on glass slide to have blood dots on test slide

I have no idea that glass slides will be re used or fresh slide will be used. because of this process, whether any HIV will be transmitted if they have used that slide earlier with anyone.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Ashok Kumar Choudhary (3 hours later)

Brief Answer:
It is always fresh

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Thanks for using Healthcaremagic.

I read your query and understand your concerns.

For estimation of hemoglobin always fresh side is used as it is not possible to use already used slide.

In case it was used for some other purpose and kept there for 15 minutes or more in dry environment there is no chance of HIV transmission. This is because HIV virus is very delicate virus and do not survive outside body for prolonged duration.

I hope this helps you.
If you have more questions feel free to write back to me.
Thanks and regards.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Ashok Kumar Choudhary (49 minutes later)

sir

slide mean rectangle glass slide/film and it doesn't mean electric machine strips

Answered by Dr. Dr. Ashok Kumar Choudhary (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
I understand

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Thanks for reverting back to me.

I understand the slide means rectangle glass and it can be use dafter proper washing and keeping dry in for another patient. Actually in small labs this is still used for estimation of hemoglobin as it is most commonly used by lab technicians.

I hope this clarifies.
Thanks and regards.

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar