A nurse is providing education to a group of clients about the stages of HIV infection. Which of the following statements should the nurse include when discussing the asymptomatic stage? Select all that apply:.
It is characterized by no symptoms or mild symptoms.
It is associated with a gradual decline in CD4 count and a gradual increase in viral load.
It is often undetected unless tested for HIV antibodies or antigens.
It is also called acute retroviral syndrome (ARS) or seroconversion illness.
It lasts for up to 10-15 years without treatment.
Correct Answer : A,C,E
Choice A rationale:
The asymptomatic stage is characterized by no symptoms or mild symptoms. Many individuals with HIV may not be aware of their infection during this stage as they may not experience any obvious signs of illness.
Choice B rationale:
This statement is incorrect. The asymptomatic stage may see relatively stable CD4 counts and viral loads, rather than a gradual decline in CD4 count and a gradual increase in viral load.
Choice C rationale:
During the asymptomatic stage, the viral load may remain at detectable levels, but the individual may not have any symptoms. Regular HIV testing is crucial to detect the infection during this stage.
Choice D rationale:
Acute retroviral syndrome (ARS) or seroconversion illness occurs during the acute primary infection, not the asymptomatic stage.
Choice E rationale:
Without treatment, the asymptomatic stage can last for up to 10-15 years. However, the duration can vary widely from person to person.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
The acute primary infection is the initial phase of HIV infection and occurs shortly after exposure. During this stage, the viral load may be high, but the CD4 count is usually not significantly affected yet.
Choice B rationale:
The asymptomatic stage follows the acute primary infection and is characterized by no symptoms or mild symptoms. The viral load and CD4 count may be stable or slowly changing during this stage.
Choice C rationale:
The symptomatic stage is the next phase of HIV infection, also known as the early symptomatic or clinical latency stage. During this stage, the viral load is often associated with a high viral load and a low CD4 count. The immune system is weakened, and the individual may experience various HIV-related symptoms.
Choice D rationale:
AIDS is the final stage of HIV infection. At this stage, the immune system is severely compromised, and the individual is susceptible to various opportunistic infections and certain cancers. While the viral load remains high, the CD4 count is significantly low.
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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