A nurse is caring for a client newly diagnosed with HIV infection and starting antiretroviral therapy (ART) Which of the following factors should the nurse consider when selecting the appropriate ART regimen for the client? Select all that apply:.

Choice A rationale:

Assisting the client with medication administration and refills is crucial in managing HIV/AIDS. Adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) is vital for controlling the viral load and preventing the progression of the disease. By helping the client with medication administration and refills, the nurse ensures that the client follows the prescribed treatment plan consistently.

Choice B rationale:

Educating the client about safe sex practices and personal hygiene is essential in preventing the transmission of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) Providing information about condom use, practicing abstinence or mutual monogamy, and maintaining good personal hygiene can significantly reduce the risk of spreading the virus.

Choice C rationale:

Administering prophylactic antibiotics or antifungals as prescribed is important in managing opportunistic infections that can arise in individuals with weakened immune systems due to HIV/AIDS. Prophylactic treatment helps prevent these infections or reduces their severity.

Choice D rationale:

Encouraging the client to express their feelings and concerns is essential for providing psychosocial support. Living with HIV/AIDS can be emotionally challenging, and allowing the client to share their emotions helps them cope with the disease, reduces stress, and enhances overall well-being.

Choice E rationale:

Performing male circumcision is not a nursing intervention for a client with HIV/AIDS. While male circumcision has shown to reduce the risk of HIV transmission in some studies, it is not a primary nursing intervention for managing HIV/AIDS.

Choice A rationale:

The nurse should consider drug efficacy, safety, and tolerability when selecting the appropriate ART regimen for the client. Different ART drugs have varying efficacy in suppressing viral replication, potential side effects, and interactions with other medications. This consideration helps ensure the chosen regimen is effective and well-tolerated by the client.

Choice B rationale:

CD4 count and viral load are essential factors to consider when starting ART. The CD4 count reflects the client's immune status, and the viral load indicates the level of HIV replication. These parameters help gauge disease progression and monitor the response to therapy over time.

Choice D rationale:

The patient's preferences and lifestyle should be taken into account when selecting an ART regimen. Some medications may require strict adherence schedules or specific food restrictions, and considering the patient's preferences can enhance treatment adherence and overall outcomes.

Choice E rationale:

The number of opportunistic infections present is an important consideration when starting ART. Opportunistic infections are more likely to occur in individuals with low CD4 counts and can affect the choice of ART drugs and the need for prophylactic treatments.