ABSTRACT Objective: to develop and validate an application for cellphones structured in self-care to encourage adherence to antiretroviral prophylaxis after occupational exposure to biological material. Methods: phase 1 - descriptive study to identify characteristics of occupational exposure; phase 2 - methodological study to construct and validate an application content aiming to increase adherence to antiretrovirals. Results: phase 1 - 55 occupational exposures were recorded; 32 (58.2%) antiretroviral indication. Blood was present in 96.9% of exposures; most professionals have insufficient knowledge about exposure risks. A statistical relationship was identified between self-care and adherence (p<0.001). Phase 2 - application was constructed, validated by 11 experts, and considered appropriate to encourage health professionals for self-care and adherence to antiretrovirals. Conclusion: the application “Exposição Ocupacional ao HIV” was considered adequate to expand self-care and adherence of professionals to prophylactic treatment to occupational infections arising from biological risks.