HIV - notes PDF

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Human Immunodeficiency Virus Med Surg: Hematology

Pathophysiology & Causes HIV is a virus that attacks the body's immune system & if not treated, it can lead to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), which interferes with the body's ability to fight infections. The virus can be transmitted through contact with infected blood, semen or vaginal fluids; commonly from unprotected sex, blood transfusions, hypodermic needles & from mother to child (during pregnancy). Once exposed the virus replicates inside the body by hijacking or taking over & killing the CD4+ cells (T helper cells). These cells are vital in fighting off infections & diseases. Since HIV cannot reproduce on its own, it attaches itself to these T-helper cells & fuses together with it becoming one. HIV belongs to a group of viruses known as retroviruses, which carry their genetic material in the form of ribonucleic acid(RNA) rather than deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA).

Signs & Symptoms Within a few weeks flu-like symptoms appear: • Fatigue • Fever & night sweats • Sore throat • Weight loss • Diarrhea • Then asymptomatic (no signs / symptoms) until it progresses to AIDS (late stage of HIV). • AIDS s/s - Frequent infections as CD4+ cells decrease (decreased immunity)

Diagnostic Procedures • EIA: Antibodies are detected, resulting in positive results and marking the end of the window period from initial contraction. • Western blot: Also detects antibodies to HIV; used to confirm EIA • Viral load: Measures HIV RNA in the plasma • CD4/CD8: These are markers found on lymphocytes. HIV kills CD4+ cells, which results in a significantly impaired immune system

Education & Interventions • Monitor for fever, cough, sore throat etc. could mean deadly infection is setting in & CD4+ count is dropping • Monitor declining hemodynamic measurements & weight. • Compliance with medication regimen (HAART therapy)

Stages of HIV to AIDS • Stage 1 - HIV Primary Infection Initially upon contracting HIV, there is a period during which HIV tests appear as a false negative on the HIV antibody blood test, although clients are infected & highly infectious. Characterized by high levels of viral replication with destruction & dramatic drops of CD4+ T-cells counts. Once viral load stabilized, there are no signs & symptoms as the virus goes dormant until CD4+ levels drop below the 200 count. • Stage 2 - AIDS When CD4+ T-cells drop below 200 cells/mm3 the client is considered to have AIDS. Treatments: HAART Therapy • HAART - Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy multiple drugs that act on different viral targets is known as • Zidovudine: is given to pregnant women to prevent HIV crossing the placenta...