Following completion of the vaccination schedule for Hepatitis B, as a healthcare worker you are required to have blood testing for confirmation of the level of protection achieved.
This blood test is carried out no sooner than 4 weeks following your vaccination. The level of antibodies determines if you are sufficiently protected for the remainder of your career (given current guidance) or if additional immunisation is required.
It is important that you are aware that if you are found not to have responded to the vaccination (HB AB < 10 miu/ml) virology laboratory will automatically have the sample tested for Hepatitis B Core and Surface Antigen as previous or current Hepatitis B infection will prevent antibody protection being achieved. Please be aware that during infectious episode of Hepatitis B, EPP (Exposure Prone Procedures) duties cannot be carried out and may result in redeployment or deferral. Occupational Health will help and support you in this instance.
Further supporting information can be found on these links:
Hepatitis B: the green book, chapter 18 (gov.uk)
NHS Grampian Hepatitis B Guidance for Managers (NHS Grampian intranet access required)
Emergency healthcare workers: exposure prone procedures (gov.uk)
It is advisable that you are very well hydrated and warm for any blood testing appointments. Please contact our service if you are known to have poor venous access or any other issues which may require additional time for your appointment.