Family Nurse Practitioner Exam

A 19-year-old female diagnosed with acute hepatitis B recommends which for her male sexual partner with negative hepatitis B tests?

1. A hepatitis B vaccination

2. Hepatitis B immunoglobulin

3. Hepatitis B vaccination and hepatitis B immunoglobulin

4. No vaccination is needed at this time

The correct answer is: Hepatitis B vaccination and hepatitis B immunoglobulin

The recommendation for a male sexual partner of a person diagnosed with acute hepatitis B to receive both hepatitis B vaccination and hepatitis B immunoglobulin is founded on the principles of preventing transmission and providing immediate protection. In cases of potential exposure to hepatitis B, such as a sexual partner of an individual with acute infection, hepatitis B immunoglobulin (HBIG) can be administered to provide immediate passive immunity. It is effective in preventing the infection if given within 24 hours after exposure. Additionally, vaccination is crucial as it provides active immunity, which protects against future infections. The hepatitis B vaccine is typically given as a series of shots, and although it takes time for the body's immune response to develop, receiving the vaccine immediately after exposure is still critical in ensuring long-term protection. Thus, administering both HBIG for immediate protection and a hepatitis B vaccination for long-term immunity is the best strategy for a partner who has tested negative and is at risk of infection. This comprehensive approach addresses both immediate and future protection, which is why it is the optimal choice in this scenario.