Hi Dr. Bob. I know you are busy and this really might sound silly but you would really help ease my anxiety if you answer my question. I went to a nail salon and was nicked on my cuticle by a nail drill that I didn't see what sterilized. I did bleed. If it was about 20 min between use of another customer and say the nail tech also nicked the previous customer of unknown hiv status, would I be at any risk for contracting hiv? I've had neck and back pain probably due to stress and grinding my teeth at night and also have been having sinus pain and pressure. I just have been worrying myself sick. Would you recommend testing or can you put my mind and ease and tell me that there was no risk in this situation? Thanks so much and will donate!

Hello,

The nail tech nicked you and the previous customer??? Hmmm . . . just how clumsy is Ms. Nail Tech anyway?

I would consider the likelihood of your acquiring HIV from this nail nick-a-thon scenario to be essentially nonexistent. I agree your neck and back pain are most likely not nick-related but rather stress-induced.

Would I recommend HIV testing? No. However, if it is the most effective and efficient way to put your fears to rest, go ahead. It will be negative.

Thank you for your willingness to help others. By the way, your nails are flawless! Even Streisand would be envious.

Dr. Bob