Hepatitis C: guidance, data and analysis
Best practice
Abstract:
The characteristics, diagnosis, management and epidemiology of hepatitis C (Hep C, HCV).
Contents:
Diagnosis and management
Data collection
Epidemiology
Occupational exposure
Commissioning heathcare services
Category:
Control
Investigation
Management
Prevention
Treatment
Expert Review
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Summary:
The purpose of this document is to inform health professionals about hepatitis C and assist them in offering hepatitis C testing to patients who may have been at risk of infection.The document provides information and advice on:-· Epidemiology, prevalence and how the virus is transmitted· The natural history of hepatitis C infection· Groups who should be offered testing· Pre and post test discussion· Hepatitis C tests · Referral for specialist management and treatment for hepatitis C· Further sources of information and referencesThe guidance is published to support implementation of the Hepatitis C Action plan for England
Questions Addressed:
Provides information to health professionals about hepatitis C and assists them when they need to offer hepatitis C testing to patients who may be at risk
Type of Study:
Guidance document
Methods Valid:
Yes
Methods Valid Detail:
Should be read with Hepatitis C Strategy for England, Department of Health (August 2002) Hepatitis C Action Plan for England (July 2004), Health Service Circular (HSC) 2002/010 Hepatitis C Infected health care Workers Department of health and accompanying booklet to (HSC) 2002/010 Hepatitis C Infected health Care Workers (August 2002)
Results Reliability:
Yes
Problems or Biases:
No
Relevant Studies:
Keywords:
Hepatitis C testing blood borne virus treatment prevalence
Reviewer Name:
Sue Wiseman
Reviewer Post:
Nurse Consultant –Infection Control, DH
Reviewer Affiliations:
Member Advisory Committee on Dangerous Pathogens Health Protection Adviser Royal College of Nursing P/T Member Infection Control Nurses Association