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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Monitoring for signs and symptoms of opportunistic infections should be a priority during the nursing assessment of a patient with HIV/AIDS. Opportunistic infections are common in individuals with compromised immune systems due to low CD4 counts, and early detection allows prompt intervention and improved outcomes.
Assessing emotional and social well-being (Choice B) is important but may not be the highest priority in the initial assessment, as addressing immediate health risks takes precedence.
Providing counseling, feedback, and reinforcement for medication adherence (Choice C) is essential for long-term management but should not overshadow the immediate need to monitor for opportunistic infections.
Educating the patient about HIV/AIDS transmission modes (Choice D) is crucial, but it can be addressed during the patient's hospital stay or subsequent visits, while the assessment for opportunistic infections requires immediate attention to ensure timely treatment.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Prevention of opportunistic infections.
Choice B rationale:
Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is a standard treatment for patients with HIV. The primary goal of ART is to suppress viral replication, leading to increased CD4 cell count and improved immune function. As a result, patients on ART experience a reduced risk of developing opportunistic infections.
Choice A rationale:
An increase in viral replication is not an expected outcome of antiretroviral therapy. The goal of ART is to suppress viral replication and reduce the viral load in the patient's body.
Choice C rationale:
While antiretroviral therapy can lead to behavioral changes that may reduce risky behaviors, it is not the primary outcome or purpose of this treatment. The main focus is on viral suppression and immune restoration.
Choice D rationale:
Antiretroviral therapy does not directly promote human rights protection. However, access to appropriate medical care, including ART, is considered a human right for individuals with HIV/AIDS.
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