A nurse is presenting a community-based program about HIV and AIDS. A client asks the nurse to describe the initial symptoms experienced with HIV infection. Which of the following manifestations should the nurse include in the explanation of initial symptoms?
Flu-like symptoms and night sweats
Fungal and bacterial infections
Pneumocystis lung infection
Kaposi’s sarcoma
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A: Flu-like symptoms and night sweats
The initial symptoms of HIV infection often resemble those of the flu. These symptoms, known as acute retroviral syndrome (ARS) or primary HIV infection, typically occur within 2 to 4 weeks after the virus enters the body. Common symptoms include fever, chills, night sweats, muscle aches, sore throat, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, and a rash. These symptoms are the body’s natural response to the virus and indicate that the immune system is reacting to the infection. Night sweats, in particular, are a common symptom during the early stages of HIV infection.
Choice B: Fungal and bacterial infections
Fungal and bacterial infections are more commonly associated with later stages of HIV infection, particularly when the immune system has been significantly weakened. As HIV progresses and the immune system deteriorates, individuals become more susceptible to opportunistic infections, which are infections that occur more frequently and are more severe in people with weakened immune systems. These infections are not typically seen in the initial stages of HIV infection.
Choice C: Pneumocystis lung infection
Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP) is a serious infection that occurs in people with weakened immune systems, including those with advanced HIV/AIDS. It is caused by the fungus Pneumocystis jirovecii. PCP is not an initial symptom of HIV infection but rather a complication that can arise when the immune system is severely compromised. This infection is more indicative of the later stages of HIV, particularly when the CD4 cell count drops significantly.
Choice D: Kaposi’s sarcoma
Kaposi’s sarcoma is a type of cancer that forms in the lining of blood and lymph vessels. It is caused by the human herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8) and is commonly associated with advanced HIV infection or AIDS. Kaposi’s sarcoma presents as purple, red, or brown blotches or tumors on the skin and can also affect internal organs. This condition is not an initial symptom of HIV infection but rather a manifestation of severe immune system damage in the later stages of the disease.
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Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A: Tamoxifen
Tamoxifen is a medication primarily used to treat breast cancer. It works as a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM), which means it blocks estrogen receptors in breast tissue. Estrogen can promote the growth of breast cancer cells, so blocking its effects can help to slow or stop the growth of these cells. However, tamoxifen is not typically used for prostate cancer because prostate cancer is driven by androgens (male hormones) rather than estrogens.
Choice B: Leuprolide
Leuprolide is a medication commonly used in the treatment of prostate cancer. It is a type of hormone therapy known as a luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) agonist. Leuprolide works by reducing the production of testosterone, a hormone that can stimulate the growth of prostate cancer cells. By lowering testosterone levels, leuprolide helps to slow the progression of prostate cancer and can be used in various stages of the disease.
Choice C: Finasteride
Finasteride is a medication used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and male pattern baldness. It works by inhibiting the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase, which converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). While finasteride can reduce the size of the prostate and improve urinary symptoms in BPH, it is not typically used as a primary treatment for prostate cancer. Its role in prostate cancer is more preventive, as it can lower the risk of developing the disease.
Choice D: Cyclophosphamide
Cyclophosphamide is a chemotherapy drug used to treat various types of cancer, including lymphomas, leukemias, and some solid tumors. It works by interfering with the DNA of cancer cells, preventing them from dividing and growing. While cyclophosphamide can be used in certain cancer treatments, it is not a standard treatment for prostate cancer. Prostate cancer is more commonly treated with hormone therapy, targeted therapy, or other specific chemotherapy agents.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A: Take the Medication with Orange Juice
Taking betamethasone with orange juice is not specifically recommended. While orange juice can help with the taste of some medications, it does not have any particular benefit for betamethasone. Additionally, citrus juices can sometimes interfere with the absorption of certain medications.
Choice B: Take the Medication Between Meals
Taking betamethasone between meals is not advised. This medication can cause stomach upset, and taking it on an empty stomach can exacerbate this issue. It is generally recommended to take corticosteroids with food to minimize gastrointestinal discomfort.
Choice C: Take the Medication on an Empty Stomach
Taking betamethasone on an empty stomach is not recommended for the same reasons as above. It can lead to stomach irritation and discomfort. Taking the medication with food or milk helps to reduce these side effects.
Choice D: Take the Medication with Milk
Taking betamethasone with milk is the correct instruction. Milk can help to buffer the stomach lining and reduce the risk of gastrointestinal irritation, which is a common side effect of corticosteroids. This practice helps to ensure that the medication is tolerated well by the client.
