You are caring for a patient who has just been told that his illness is progressing and nothing more can be done for him. After the physician leaves, the patient asks you to stay with him for a while. The patient becomes tearful and tries several times to say something, but cannot get the words out. What would be an appropriate response for you to make at this time?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: This response shows empathy and allows the patient to express their thoughts and feelings without feeling rushed or pressured. By asking the patient if there is anything they want to say, you are showing that you are there to listen and support them during this difficult time. It is important to give the patient the space and opportunity to communicate their emotions and concerns. Offering advice or making assumptions about the patient's feelings may not be as helpful as simply providing a listening ear.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) are a class of antiretroviral medications typically recommended to be taken without regard to meals. This means that these medications can be taken with or without food. It is important to follow the specific instructions provided by the healthcare provider regarding the timing of medication administration. Taking NRTIs without regard to meals helps ensure consistent absorption of the medication and can help maintain steady drug levels in the body. There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with NRTIs in terms of meal timing or composition.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The nurse's best response is option C - "AIDS isn't transmitted by casual contact." This response is accurate and provides the necessary information to address the friend's concern. It is important to educate the friend that HIV/AIDS is not transmitted through casual contact such as visiting a patient in the hospital. By stating this fact clearly, the nurse can help alleviate any unfounded fears or misconceptions the friend may have about contracting HIV while visiting the patient. This response promotes understanding and helps reduce stigma associated with HIV/AIDS, while also emphasizing the importance of accurate information in preventing the spread of the virus.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: During the primary infection stage of HIV, the patient is newly infected with the virus. At this stage, the patient's immune system has not yet produced HIV-specific antibodies, making it difficult to detect HIV infection using standard antibody tests. Instead, the virus can be detected by testing for the presence of HIV RNA or p24 antigen. The primary infection stage is characterized by a high level of viral replication and rapid spread of the virus throughout the body. In this early stage, the patient may experience flu-like symptoms such as fever, sore throat, muscle aches, and swollen lymph nodes. The absence of HIV-specific antibodies means that the patient is highly infectious and can easily transmit the virus to others. As the infection progresses, the patient will eventually develop HIV-specific antibodies, which can be detected through antibody tests.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Megestrol is a synthetic progestational agent that has been found to promote significant weight gain in AIDS patients with wasting syndrome by increasing body fat stores. It is commonly used to stimulate appetite and increase caloric intake in patients experiencing anorexia and weight loss due to various medical conditions, including AIDS-related wasting. Megestrol works by increasing appetite and improving food intake, leading to weight gain and improved nutritional status in patients with HIV/AIDS. It has been shown to be effective in reversing weight loss and improving quality of life in these patients. Therefore, the drug megestrol is the most appropriate choice for promoting weight gain in AIDS patients with wasting syndrome and anorexia.