If you think you’ve been exposed to HIV at work, see a health care provider, an emergency room doctor, or an urgent care provider right away. Report your exposure to the appropriate person at work and seek medical attention immediately. PEP must be started within 72 hours after an exposure. The sooner you start PEP, the better. Every hour counts. Careful practice of standard precautions can help reduce the risk of exposure while caring for patients with HIV. Learn more about occupational exposure to HIV and how to prevent it.