A patient who has HIV asks the nurse why blood work has to be done so frequently. Which response should the nurse make to the patient?

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Question 1 of 5

A patient who has HIV asks the nurse why blood work has to be done so frequently. Which response should the nurse make to the patient?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because monitoring CD4+ lymphocyte counts is crucial in managing HIV. CD4+ cells are the primary target of the HIV virus, and their count reflects the status of the immune system and disease progression. By tracking CD4+ levels, healthcare providers can determine the need for antiretroviral therapy and assess the effectiveness of treatment. Choice A is incorrect because B-lymphocytes are not typically used to monitor HIV progression. Choice B is incorrect as phagocytes are not specifically related to HIV disease progression. Choice C is incorrect as neutrophils are not the primary indicator for managing HIV.

Question 2 of 5

The nurse is caring for the newborn of a mother who is HIV positive. What treatment should the nurse expect to be prescribed for the infant?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Zidovudine (AZT). This antiretroviral medication is commonly used to prevent transmission of HIV from mother to child during pregnancy and delivery. AZT reduces the risk of vertical transmission by inhibiting viral replication in the newborn. Bacitracin (A) and Erythromycin (B) are antibiotics that do not treat HIV. Protease inhibitors (C) are not typically used in newborns due to safety concerns and efficacy in preventing transmission.

Question 3 of 5

The nurse has been discussing actions to prevent AIDS-related wasting syndrome with a patient being treated for AIDS. Which patient statements indicate an understanding of this teaching? (Select all that apply.)

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Eat a low-residue diet. This is because AIDS-related wasting syndrome can lead to malabsorption issues and gastrointestinal symptoms, making it difficult for the body to absorb nutrients from food. A low-residue diet is recommended to reduce the amount of fiber and bulk in the diet, making it easier for the body to digest and absorb nutrients. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not specifically address the nutritional needs of a patient with AIDS-related wasting syndrome. Drinking liquids before meals may help with appetite but does not address nutrient absorption. Enjoying food odors may stimulate appetite but does not focus on nutrient intake. Numbing oral sores with ice or popsicles addresses symptom management but does not address the underlying issue of nutrient absorption.

Question 4 of 5

While collecting admission data, the nurse suspects a patient with AIDS is experiencing an HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder. What observations did the nurse make to come to this conclusion? (Select all that apply.)

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Inappropriate laughter. Inappropriate laughter is a common symptom of HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder, indicating cognitive impairment. This symptom is often observed in patients with AIDS and can be indicative of changes in behavior and emotional responses. Audible bowel sounds (A) are not specifically related to HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder. Inability to state home address (C) may indicate memory impairment but is not a specific symptom of this disorder. Knee buckling while walking (D) is more related to physical weakness or balance issues rather than cognitive impairment associated with HIV.

Question 5 of 5

A patient admitted yesterday for injuries sustained while intoxicated believes the window blinds are snakes trying to get into the room. The patient is anxious, agitated, and diaphoretic. Which medication can the nurse anticipate the health care provider will prescribe?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct medication to anticipate for this patient is a benzodiazepine, such as lorazepam (Ativan). Rationale: 1. Benzodiazepines are commonly used to treat acute agitation and anxiety in patients, which is present in this case. 2. Lorazepam has a rapid onset of action and can help calm the patient quickly. 3. It can help manage the patient's perception of the window blinds as snakes and reduce agitation. 4. Benzodiazepines are safer for patients with alcohol intoxication compared to other sedatives or antipsychotics. Summary of Incorrect Choices: A: Monoamine oxidase inhibitors are not typically used for acute agitation and anxiety. They have a slower onset of action and are not first-line for this situation. B: Phenothiazines may worsen the patient's condition due to their potential side effects like sedation and hypotension. D: Narcotic analgesics are not appropriate for managing anxiety or agitation

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