What is true about antiretroviral drugs used to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)?

Choice A reason: Removing the nursing diagnosis in the plan of care since it has not occurred is not a good action, because it does not account for the possibility of future impairment. The client is still at risk for impaired skin integrity due to the prolonged bed rest, and the nurse should continue to monitor and prevent any skin breakdown.

Choice B reason: Keeping the nursing diagnosis in the plan of care the same since the risk factors are still present is the best action, because it reflects the current situation and the potential problem. The client has not developed impaired skin integrity, but the risk factors have not changed. The nurse should maintain the interventions that have been effective in preventing skin impairment, such as turning, repositioning, moisturizing, and inspecting the skin.

Choice C reason: Modifying the nursing diagnosis in the plan of care to impaired skin integrity is not a good action, because it does not match the data. The client has not shown any signs of impaired skin integrity, such as redness, blanching, breakdown, or ulceration. The nurse should not change the diagnosis based on assumptions or predictions, but on evidence.

Choice D reason: Changing the nursing diagnosis in the plan of care to impaired mobility is not a good action, because it does not address the original problem. The client may have impaired mobility due to the bed rest, but that is not the focus of the question. The question is about the risk for impaired skin integrity, which is a different issue that requires different interventions. The nurse should not ignore or replace the existing diagnosis without justification.

Choice A reason: "I will take all prescribed medications." is not a statement that demonstrates an understanding of the teaching, because it is incomplete and vague. Taking all prescribed medications is an important part of the treatment for HIV, but it does not explain why, how, or for how long the medications are needed. Taking all prescribed medications without understanding the purpose, benefits, or risks can lead to poor adherence, compliance, or outcomes.

Choice B reason: "I will only need to take HIV medications for 6 months, and then I will be cured." is not a statement that demonstrates an understanding of the teaching, because it is incorrect and unrealistic. Taking HIV medications for 6 months is not enough to treat the infection, and there is no cure for HIV. HIV is a chronic and incurable infection that requires lifelong treatment with antiretroviral drugs, which can suppress the viral load, improve the immune function, and prevent the progression to AIDS. Stopping the medications after 6 months can cause the virus to rebound, the immune system to deteriorate, and the disease to worsen.

Choice C reason: "I will have to take medications for the rest of my life." is a statement that demonstrates an understanding of the teaching, because it is accurate and realistic. Taking medications for the rest of one's life is the reality of living with HIV, as there is no cure for the infection. Taking medications for the rest of one's life can help control the infection, maintain the health, and prolong the survival of people with HIV.

Choice D reason: "I will have to be careful and avoid crowds." is not a statement that demonstrates an understanding of the teaching, because it is unnecessary and exaggerated. Being careful and avoiding crowds is not a requirement for people with HIV, as the infection is not transmitted by casual contact, such as touching, hugging, or sharing utensils. Being careful and avoiding crowds can also be detrimental to the social and emotional wellbeing of people with HIV, as it can cause isolation, stigma, or depression.