During a screening test for HIV, what action should a pharmacist take if the test is reactive?

When a screening test for HIV is reactive, the appropriate action is to refer the patient to public health for confirmatory testing. This approach ensures that the patient receives accurate information regarding their HIV status since a reactive result does not confirm an HIV infection. Confirmatory tests, such as the Western blot or an HIV RNA test, are necessary to validate the initial screening result.

This referral process not only adheres to best practices in patient care but also facilitates further evaluation, counseling, and support for the patient within the healthcare system. By involving public health services, the patient can be guided through the next steps, which include accessing treatment options and preventative care, if needed.

In contrast, informing the patient immediately without follow-up may lead to unnecessary alarm or misunderstanding. Conducting a confirmatory test on-site is generally beyond the pharmacist's scope of practice in many situations, especially without the appropriate accreditation. Dispensing treatment immediately could also be harmful, as it may be premature without a confirmed diagnosis and could mislead the patient regarding their treatment needs. Therefore, referring the patient for confirmatory testing is the most responsible and medically sound approach.