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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View Related questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Wiping from back to front is incorrect and can lead to contamination of the urine sample with bacteria from the anal area. The correct method is to wipe from front to back to reduce the risk of contamination.
Choice B reason:
Urinating a small amount in the toilet before collecting the sample is the correct procedure for obtaining a midstream urine specimen. This helps to flush out any bacteria or contaminants from the urethra, ensuring that the sample collected is as clean as possible.
Choice C reason:
Letting the urine cool to room temperature before sending it to the lab is incorrect. Urine samples should be sent to the lab as soon as possible after collection to ensure accurate results. If there is a delay, the sample should be refrigerated.
Choice D reason:
It is generally recommended to avoid collecting a urine sample during menstruation, as menstrual blood can contaminate the sample and affect the test results.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Clean clothing is important for comfort and hygiene during a disaster, but it is not typically considered an essential item for a basic disaster preparedness kit. Essential items focus on survival needs such as food, water, and medical supplies.
Choice B reason:
Personal identification is crucial in a disaster situation. It helps in verifying identity, accessing services, and reuniting with family members. Important documents such as identification cards, insurance policies, and bank records should be included in a waterproof container.
Choice C reason:
The recommendation is to have one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, which totals three gallons, not quarts. Water is essential for drinking and sanitation.
Choice D reason:
Matches can be useful for starting fires for warmth or cooking, but they are not considered a primary necessity in a basic disaster preparedness kit. More critical items include food, water, and medical supplies.
Choice E reason:
Prescription medications are essential for individuals who rely on them for chronic conditions. Having an adequate supply of necessary medications can be life-saving during a disaster when access to pharmacies may be limited.