Author Question: The nurse cares for a patient who is human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) positive and taking ... (Read 32 times)

lb_gilbert · **on:** Jun 25, 2018

The nurse cares for a patient who is human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) positive and taking antiretroviral therapy (ART). Which information is most important for the nurse to address when planning care?

a. The patient's blood glucose level is 142 mg/dL.
b. The patient complains of feeling constantly tired.
c. The patient is unable to state the side effects of the medications.
d. The patient states, Sometimes I miss a dose of zidovudine (AZT).

Question 2

An older adult who takes medications for coronary artery disease has just been diagnosed with asymptomatic chronic human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. Which information will the nurse include in patient teaching?

a. Many medications have interactions with antiretroviral drugs.
b. Less frequent CD4+ level monitoring is needed in older adults.
c. Hospice care is available for patients with terminal HIV infection.
d. Progression of HIV infection occurs more rapidly in older patients.

AngeliqueG · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 25, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: D
Because missing doses of ART can lead to drug resistance, this patient statement indicates the need for interventions such as teaching or changes in the drug scheduling. Elevated blood glucose and fatigue are common side effects of ART. The nurse should discuss medication side effects with the patient, but this is not as important as addressing the skipped doses of AZT.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A
The nurse will teach the patient about potential interactions between antiretrovirals and the medications that the patient is using for chronic health problems. Treatment and monitoring of HIV infection is not affected by age. A patient with asymptomatic HIV infection is not a candidate for hospice. Progression of HIV is not affected by age, although it may be affected by chronic disease.