HIV/AIDS and Autoimmune Disorders Quiz

HIV/AIDS Transmission

• A patient stating they can stop antiretroviral therapy (ART) once their viral load is undetectable needs further teaching. ART is essential to maintain viral suppression, not a cure.

Hypersensitivity Reactions

• Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks healthy tissues.
• The priority response to a patient asking about SLE is that it's an autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks healthy tissue.
• Immediate washing and reporting of a needle stick injury with possible HIV exposure is critical.

Opportunistic Infections in AIDS

• Oral candidiasis (thrush) in an AIDS patient requires antifungal medications.
• Prioritizing antifungal medications is the priority in the patient's care plan.

HIV Testing

• Waiting 3 weeks to 3 months for an accurate HIV test result is best.
• Testing too early in the window period can result in false negatives.

Safe Practices for Healthcare Workers

• Immediately washing the affected area and reporting the incident is crucial after a needle stick injury.
• Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) should be started within 72 hours to reduce HIV transmission risk.

Immune System Components

• B lymphocytes produce antibodies, part of the adaptive immune response.

Stages of HIV Infection

• The asymptomatic stage of HIV infection is characterized by a low viral load and absence of symptoms.

Transmission of HIV

• Unprotected sexual contact is the leading cause of HIV transmission worldwide.

Diagnostic Tests for HIV

• A Western blot test confirms a positive HIV antibody screening test (ELISA).

Hypersensitivity Reactions (Hemolytic Transfusion Reaction)

• Hemolytic transfusion reactions are Type II hypersensitivity reactions caused by antibodies attacking red blood blood cells.

Medication Side Effects (Protease Inhibitors)

• Increased blood glucose levels are an expected side effect (potential adverse effect) associated with protease inhibitors for HIV therapy.

Nutritional Support (AIDS Patients)

• High-protein, high-calorie diets are recommended for AIDS patients experiencing weight loss to prevent malnutrition and support immune function.

HIV Prevention (Pre-exposure Prophylaxis)

• Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) significantly reduces the risk of sexually acquired HIV when taken daily, not just after potential exposure.

SLE Management

• Administering corticosteroids is the priority intervention for a patient experiencing an SLE flare-up with kidney involvement, due to the ability to reduce inflammation.

Immune System Aging

• Decreased cell-mediated immunity is responsible for increased susceptibility to infections in older adults.

Anaphylaxis

• Administering epinephrine is the priority action for a patient experiencing an anaphylactic reaction.

ART (Antiretroviral Therapy) Adherence

• Consistent ART administration is essential to prevent viral resistance.

Opportunistic Infections (CD4 Counts)

• Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia is a common opportunistic infection in patients with low CD4 counts.

Patient Teaching (HIV Transmission)

• Using latex condoms consistently and correctly during sexual activity is the most effective way to prevent HIV transmission.

HIV and Pregnancy

• Administering antiretroviral therapy (ART) is the best strategy to prevent mother-to-child HIV transmission during pregnancy.

Immunoglobulin Functions (Allergic Reactions)

• IgE immunoglobulin is involved in allergic reactions.

SLE Education (Sun Protection)

• Using sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 is crucial for patients with SLE to prevent sun-induced exacerbations.