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
Kaposi's sarcoma
Fungal and bacterial infections
Pneumocystis lung infection
Pneumocystis lung infection
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale:
Flu-like symptoms: These are common during the early stages of HIV infection, often within 2-4 weeks after exposure to the virus. They are a result of the body's immune system responding to the virus. Symptoms can include:
Fever Fatigue
Muscle aches
Headache Sore throat
Rash
Swollen lymph nodes
Night sweats: These are also common in early HIV infection and can be caused by the body's attempts to fight off the virus or by inflammation. They can also be a side effect of some HIV medications.
Choice B rationale:
Kaposi's sarcoma (KS): This is a type of cancer that is associated with HIV infection. It is caused by a virus called Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV). KS often appears as purple or red lesions on the skin or in the mouth. It can also affect other organs, such as the lungs and lymph nodes. However, it's not a common initial symptom of HIV infection. It usually develops in later stages of HIV when the immune system is severely weakened.
Choice C rationale:
Fungal and bacterial infections: People with HIV are more susceptible to infections because the virus weakens their immune system. However, fungal and bacterial infections are not typically among the initial symptoms of HIV infection. They usually occur in later stages of the disease when the immune system is more compromised.
Choice D rationale:
Pneumocystis lung infection (PCP): This is a serious lung infection that is caused by a fungus called Pneumocystis jirovecii. It is a common opportunistic infection in people with HIV, but it is not typically an initial symptom. It usually develops in later stages of HIV when the CD4 count (a measure of immune system health) is very low.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Candidiasis, also known as thrush, is a fungal infection caused by Candida albicans. It commonly affects the mouth, causing white patches on the tongue, inner cheeks, gums, or tonsils.
Individuals with AIDS often have weakened immune systems due to a decreased CD4 T-cell count. This makes them more susceptible to opportunistic infections like candidiasis.
The fungal infection can spread to the esophagus, causing difficulty swallowing, or even to the bloodstream, leading to more serious complications.
Choice B rationale:
Xerostomia refers to dry mouth. It can be caused by various factors, including medications, salivary gland dysfunction, or radiation therapy. While it can occur in individuals with AIDS, it's not directly linked to a decreased CD4 T-cell count.
Choice C rationale:
Halitosis, or bad breath, can have multiple causes, including poor oral hygiene, gum disease, or digestive issues. It's not specifically associated with AIDS or a decreased CD4 T-cell count.
Choice D rationale:
Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums, often caused by plaque buildup. It's a common condition, but it's not directly linked to AIDS or a decreased CD4 T-cell count.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
A high-purine diet is not recommended for clients with gout. Purines are substances found in certain foods, such as red meat, organ meats, seafood, and beer. When the body breaks down purines, it produces uric acid. Uric acid is a waste product that can build up in the blood and cause gout attacks.
Choice B rationale:
Aspirin is not typically recommended for clients with gout. In fact, aspirin can sometimes worsen gout symptoms by increasing uric acid levels in the blood.
Choice C rationale:
Limiting alcohol intake is a key part of the treatment regimen for gout. Alcohol can increase uric acid levels in the blood and trigger gout attacks.
Choice D rationale:
Limiting fluid intake is not recommended for clients with gout. In fact, it is important for clients with gout to stay well- hydrated to help flush uric acid out of the body.
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