A nurse is counseling a newly diagnosed HIV-positive client. Which statement made by the client indicates an understanding of the disease?
"HIV is a bacterial infection that can be treated with antibiotics.”
"HIV attacks and destroys the cells responsible for my immune system.”
"HIV can only be transmitted through unprotected sexual intercourse.”
"I can rely on herbal remedies to cure HIV without taking medications.”
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
HIV is not a bacterial infection but a viral infection caused by the human immunodeficiency virus. It cannot be treated with antibiotics, as antibiotics are only effective against bacterial infections.
Choice B rationale:
This statement is correct. HIV attacks and destroys the CD4+ T cells, which are crucial for maintaining the immune system. As the virus replicates and damages these cells, the body becomes more susceptible to infections and other illnesses.
Choice C rationale:
This statement is incorrect. HIV can be transmitted through various means, including unprotected sexual intercourse, sharing needles, mother-to-child during childbirth or breastfeeding, and blood transfusions with infected blood.
Choice D rationale:
This statement is incorrect. There is no cure for HIV, and relying solely on herbal remedies without taking antiretroviral medications would be ineffective and dangerous. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is the standard treatment for managing HIV and preventing its progression to AIDS.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
This statement is correct. Candidiasis of bronchi, trachea, lungs, or esophagus is one of the opportunistic infections associated with advanced HIV disease and AIDS.
Choice B rationale:
This statement is correct. Kaposi's sarcoma is another opportunistic infection commonly associated with AIDS.
Choice C rationale:
This statement is correct. Encephalopathy, HIV-related, is an opportunistic infection that can define AIDS.
Choice D rationale:
This statement is incorrect. Antiretroviral therapy is a lifelong treatment for HIV infection, and its discontinuation should not be based solely on the CD4 count falling below 200 cells/uL. The client needs further education on the importance of continuous treatment to manage HIV effectively and prevent opportunistic infections.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Antiretroviral therapy (ART) can help increase CD4 count, but the primary goal of ART is to suppress viral replication and reduce viral load to undetectable levels, thereby preserving immune function.
Choice B rationale:
This is the correct answer. The goal of antiretroviral therapy (ART) is to reduce viral load to undetectable levels, which helps in preventing disease progression and transmission of HIV.
Choice C rationale:
Preventing opportunistic infections and cancers is an important benefit of ART, but the primary goal is to suppress viral replication.
Choice D rationale:
Adherence to the prescribed regimen and schedule is crucial for the effectiveness of ART, but it is not the primary goal of ART itself.
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