HIV / AIDS LVN Nursing Study Guide

A comprehensive vocabulary review of HIV/AIDS nursing concepts, including pathophysiology, staging, diagnostics, medication classes (HAART), and nursing interventions.

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)

A retrovirus transmitted through blood and body fluids (semen, vaginal secretions) that targets CD4+ T-cells and uses reverse transcriptase to integrate RNA into host DNA.

Reverse Transcriptase

An enzyme used by HIV to integrate its RNA into the host cell's DNA by working "backwards" (RNA to DNA).

Normal CD4+ T-cell count

$$\ge 500\,\text{cells/mm}^3$$

Normal CD4:CD8 ratio

$2:1$ (< 1 indicates severe disease).

HIV Stage 1 (Acute)

Characterized by a CD4 count of $\ge 500\,\text{cells/mm}^3$ ($\ge 29\%$), flu-like symptoms within $2-4$ weeks of exposure, a spike in viral load, and a drop in CD4 cells.

HIV Stage 2 (Chronic)

Asymptomatic stage lasting up to 10 years with a CD4 count of $200-499\,\text{cells/mm}^3$ ($14-28\%$) where anti-HIV antibodies are produced and active replication begins.

HIV Stage 3 (AIDS)

Characterized by a CD4 count of < 200\,\text{cells/mm}^3 (< 14\%) or the presence of a life-threatening opportunistic infection.

Kaposi's Sarcoma

An AIDS-defining malignancy characterized by purple skin lesions.

ELISA / EIA

The initial screening test used to detect HIV antibodies.

Western Blot / IFA

A confirmatory test for HIV; a positive result indicates exposure to HIV and that the patient is HIV+, though it does not mean clinical AIDS.

HAART (Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy)

A combination of $3-4$ HIV medications used to reduce viral load, slow progression, and prevent drug resistance.

Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors (NRTIs)

A drug class including Zidovudine (AZT) that blocks the virus from converting RNA to DNA; requires monitoring for anemia and neutropenia via CBC.

Protease Inhibitors (PIs)

Medications such as Atazanavir and Saquinavir that block the protease enzyme; they can cause elevated cholesterol and triglycerides.

Fusion Inhibitors

A drug class, specifically Enfuvirtide, that blocks HIV from fusing with the host cell membrane and is administered via SubQ injection.

Entry Inhibitors

Medications like Maraviroc that block the CCR5 receptor on CD4 T-cells; carrying a risk of liver toxicity.

Wasting Syndrome

A complication of AIDS involving severe weight loss and anorexia, managed with 6 small high-protein meals daily and appetite stimulants.

Toxoplasmosis prevention

An infection prevention rule for HIV/AIDS clients to avoid cleaning pet litter boxes to prevent exposure to protozoal pathogens.

HIV Encephalopathy

A condition leading to seizures, dementia, and confusion, requiring the implementation of seizure precautions and safety monitoring.

Candidiasis

A fungal opportunistic infection presenting as oral thrush or esophageal infection in AIDS patients.

Viral Load (RNA quantification)

A lab test used to determine viral load before treatment, monitor disease progression, and detect medication resistance.