A nurse is caring for a client who is coming to the clinic for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing. The patient's enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) results are positive. Which test will be used to confirm the diagnosis of HIV?
Quantitative RNA assay
Western blot analysis
Viral load test
CD4+ T-cell count
The Correct Answer is B
A. A quantitative RNA assay is used to measure the amount of HIV RNA in the blood and is not used for confirmatory diagnosis after a positive ELISA.
B. The Western blot analysis is the standard confirmatory test for HIV following a positive ELISA result, as it specifically detects the presence of antibodies to HIV proteins.
C. A viral load test assesses the level of virus in the blood but does not confirm the diagnosis of HIV.
D. The CD4+ T-cell count is used to assess immune function in individuals with HIV but is not a confirmatory test for the diagnosis of the virus.
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Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Ensuring the blood is compatible with the client's blood type is critical in preventing an acute hemolytic reaction, as incompatible blood transfusions can cause serious, potentially life-threatening reactions.
B. Administering the transfusion rapidly can increase the risk of complications and does not prevent hemolytic reactions; transfusions should be given at a safe rate based on the client's condition.
C. Using a blood warmer is not a standard intervention to prevent hemolytic reactions; it's typically used in specific cases such as massive transfusions or hypothermia, but it does not address compatibility.
D. Administering prophylactic antihistamines is not a recommended practice to prevent hemolytic reactions; it is more relevant for preventing allergic reactions associated with transfusions.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Viral load count is the primary test used to assess the effectiveness of HIV therapy by measuring the amount of HIV RNA in the blood, indicating how well the treatment is controlling the virus.
B. The Western blot is used as a confirmatory test for HIV diagnosis rather than monitoring therapy effectiveness.
C. The Enzyme immunoassay (EIA) test is used for initial HIV screening but does not measure viral load or therapy effectiveness.
D. Platelet count can be affected in HIV infection, especially with advanced disease, but it does not directly measure the effectiveness of HIV therapy.