HIV/AIDS Overview PDF

# HIV/AIDS Overview HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks the immune system, particularly CD4+ T lymphocytes, weakening the body’s ability to fight infections and diseases. Without treatment, HIV can progress to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), the most severe phase,...

# HIV/AIDS Overview HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks the immune system, particularly CD4+ T lymphocytes, weakening the body’s ability to fight infections and diseases. Without treatment, HIV can progress to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), the most severe phase, characterized by severe immune deficiency and opportunistic infections. ## Affected Body Systems 1. **Immune System:** - Progressive depletion of CD4+ T cells, leading to immunodeficiency. - Increased susceptibility to opportunistic infections and cancers. 2. **Nervous System:** - HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND) due to direct viral effects or opportunistic infections. ## Diagnostic Tests and Evaluations 1. **HIV Testing:** - **Antibody/Antigen Tests (4th Generation):** Detect both HIV-1/2 antibodies and p24 antigen. Rationale: Most reliable for early diagnosis. - **Nucleic Acid Test (NAT):** Detects viral RNA in blood. Rationale: Useful for early detection and confirming diagnosis. 2. **CD4 Count:** - Measures CD4+ T cell levels. Rationale: Determines immune status and disease progression. 3. **Viral Load Test:** - Quantifies HIV RNA in the blood. Rationale: Assesses treatment efficacy and disease progression. 4. **Resistance Testing:** - Identifies drug-resistant HIV strains. Rationale: Guides antiretroviral therapy (ART) selection. 5. **Opportunistic Infection Screening:** - Tests for TB, toxoplasmosis, and hepatitis. Rationale: Opportunistic infections often accompany advanced HIV ## Nursing Diagnoses 1. **Imbalanced Nutrition: Less than Body Requirements** - Related to: Chronic diarrhea, poor appetite, or malabsorption. - Interventions: Provide high-calorie meals and supplements. 2. **Risk for Infection** - Related to: Immunosuppression. - Interventions: Implement strict infection control measures and educate about safe practices. 3. **Ineffective Coping** - Related to: Psychological distress due to HIV diagnosis. - Interventions: Provide emotional support and refer to counseling. 4. **Fatigue** - Related to: Chronic illness and infections. - Interventions: Encourage energy conservation and adequate rest. ## Nursing Responsibilities 1. **Patient Education:** - Importance of ART adherence to prevent resistance. - Safe practices to prevent HIV transmission (e.g., condom use). - Recognizing signs of opportunistic infections. 2. **Monitoring:** - Assess for treatment side effects, e.g., hepatotoxicity, nephrotoxicity. - Regularly check CD4 count and viral load. ## Treatment and Medications 1. **Antiretroviral Therapy (ART):** - Combination therapy reduces viral load to undetectable levels and restores immune function. ### Drug Classes: - **Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors (NRTIs):** e.g., tenofovir, zidovudine. - **Non-Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors (NNRTIs):** e.g., efavirenz. - **Protease Inhibitors (PIs):** e.g., lopinavir, ritonavir. - **Integrase Strand Transfer Inhibitors (INSTIs):** e.g., dolutegravir. - **Entry Inhibitors:** e.g., maraviroc. 2. **Prophylaxis and Treatment for Opportunistic Infections:** - **Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX):** Prevents PCP and toxoplasmosis. - **Fluconazole:** Treats fungal infections. - **Antitubercular Drugs:** Treat latent or active TB. 3. **Supportive Medications:** - Anti-emetics, antidiarrheals, and nutritional supplements for symptom management. ## Psychosocial Support - Address stigma and fear. - Provide resources for financial assistance or support groups. ## Prophylactic Measures - **Vaccinations** (e.g., hepatitis B, pneumococcal). - **Preventive medications** for opportunistic infections. ## Assess for treatment side effects - e.g., hepatotoxicity, nephrotoxicity. ## Regularly check CD4 count and viral load.