A 22-year-old man needs hepatitis screening for his job. What does a positive HBsAg indicate?

Study for the Fellowship of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA) Exam. Enhance your learning with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each equipped with detailed explanations. Ace your exam preparation!

A positive HBsAg (Hepatitis B surface antigen) result specifically indicates the presence of the hepatitis B virus in the bloodstream. This means that the individual is either currently infected with hepatitis B, which could be chronic or acute. In the context of your query, the interpretation aligns with the correct choice, which suggests that the individual has chronic hepatitis B.

The mention of needing immunization against hepatitis A in this context is also significant. Individuals who are not already immune to hepatitis A should be vaccinated, especially in high-risk occupations where exposure might be likely. Therefore, recognizing that chronic hepatitis B infection is present and assessing for the need for hepatitis A vaccination provides a comprehensive approach to address the individual’s health needs.

In summarizing, the correct answer emphasizes the implications of a positive HBsAg result in terms of chronic hepatitis B infection and necessary preventative measures for hepatitis A, presenting a clear view of the patient's current health status and management requirements.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy