Nursing Care for Patients with HIV/AIDS – Key Lecture Points

Question-and-answer flashcards covering infection control, psychosocial care, patient education, and ethical considerations when nursing patients with HIV/AIDS.

Which signs and symptoms should alert the nurse to a possible infection in an AIDS patient?

Fever, chills, and shortness of breath.

Why is frequent assessment of an AIDS patient’s mental status essential?

To detect alterations such as depression or other cognitive changes linked to the disease.

What myth about HIV transmission should nurses dispel when educating patients and families?

That casual contact (e.g., shaking hands or hugging) spreads HIV; transmission requires blood-to-blood or other specific body-fluid contact.

True or False: The nurse should counsel an AIDS patient to avoid individuals with active infections.

True – to reduce the patient’s exposure to pathogens.

Which nursing intervention best decreases a hospitalized AIDS patient’s sense of isolation?

Encourage the patient to express feelings of loneliness and reassure them those feelings are normal.

Give an example of an open-ended question a nurse might use to help an AIDS patient verbalize grief.

“What concerns you right now?” or “Is there something that’s bothering you?”

Besides infection prevention, which two physical assessments did the instructor emphasize?

Airway status and bowel pattern.

What personal step should a nurse take if they feel uncomfortable caring for an AIDS patient?

Inform the charge nurse, clarify personal values, and request assignment adjustment if necessary.

Why are pregnant nurses generally not assigned to care for patients with AIDS?

To eliminate potential risks associated with accidental exposure to HIV.

What overarching approach helps nurses answer psychosocial ("fufu") exam questions correctly?

Think like a psych nurse—focus on therapeutic communication and emotional support.

Beyond physical care, what major aspect of nursing is critical for AIDS patients?

Providing psychosocial support, including help with coping, stress, grief, and ethical concerns.

How can family education reduce an AIDS patient’s social isolation?

By teaching accurate transmission facts, reassuring loved ones that normal social contact is safe.