1st August 2023

A 38-year-old woman is seen in an infectious diseases clinic following suspected HIV exposure by sharing contaminated needles.

A 38-year-old woman is seen in an infectious diseases clinic following suspected HIV exposure by sharing contaminated needles. The person whom the needle was shared with has an unknown HIV status. The exposure took place yesterday. Initial screening for HIV is negative.

What is the gold-standard diagnostic test for HIV?

Select the SINGLE most appropriate option from the list below. Select ONE option only.