Author Question: A young female patient with HIV does not want to see the gynecologist because, she says, I'm going ... (Read 123 times)

sc00by25 · **on:** Jun 25, 2018

A young female patient with HIV does not want to see the gynecologist because, she says, I'm going to die anyway. How should the nurse respond?

1. Having a PAP smear will help detect the onset of cervical cancer.
2. Why do you think you are going to die?
3. The gynecologist will help diagnose any Hodgkin disease.
4. But you still should be on birth control.

Question 2

A patient with HIV is complaining of increased pain in the feet and legs. What should the nurse realize this patient is demonstrating?

1. a reaction to the medication
2. an opportunistic infection
3. a secondary cancer
4. a nervous system manifestation of the disease

cuttiesgirl16 · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 25, 2018

Answer to Question 1

Correct Answer: 1

Cervical cancer develops frequently in women with HIV infection and tends to be aggressive. Women with concurrent HIV infection and cervical cancer usually die of the cervical cancer, not AIDS. Because of this, it is recommended that women with HIV infection have Papanicolaou (Pap) smears every 6 months and aggressive treatment of cervical dysplasia with colposcopic examination and cone biopsy. While the nurse should investigate the patient's feelings, the emphasis is on preventive treatments. The gynecologist does not focus on the diagnosis of Hodgkin disease. Safe sex practices and the use of contraceptives are within the scope of the gynecologist; however, this is not the primary focus of the interaction.

Answer to Question 2

Correct Answer: 4

Peripheral nervous system manifestations are common in HIV-infected patients. Sensory neuropathies with manifestations of numbness, tingling, and pain in the lower extremities affect about 30 of patients with AIDS. The manifestations noted are not consistent with a medication reaction, opportunistic infection, or secondary cancer.