HIV by (MED-MIND DYNASTY)

29/07/2024
HUMAN IMMUNODEFICIENCY VIRUS ( HIV )
By:
( 💞 MED-MIND DYNASTY 💞💞)
1. Introduction
HIV, or human immunodeficiency virus, is a virus that attacks the immune system, specifically
the CD4 cells (T cells), which help the immune system fight off infections. If left untreated, HIV
can lead to the disease known as AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome). HIV is a global
health concern and has caused a significant impact on the lives of many individuals and
communities around the world.
2. Definition
HIV is a sexually transmitted disease, HIV is a virus that attacks the immune system,
specifically targeting the CD4 cells, which are crucial for the body's defense against infections.
When HIV damages the immune system, it becomes harder for the body to fight off infections
and diseases. If the virus is left untreated, it can progress to AIDS, which is the most advanced
stage of HIV infection.
3. Stages of HIV
HIV infection progresses through several stages, each with its

own characteristics and potential symptoms. The stages of HIV
infection are as follows:
1. Acute HIV Infection: This is the initial stage of HIV infection, occurring
within 2-4 weeks after exposure to the virus. During this stage, the virus
replicates rapidly, and individuals may experience flu-like symptoms, such
as fever, sore throat, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes.
2. Clinical Latency Stage (Chronic HIV Infection): Also known as the

asymptomatic stage, this phase can last for a decade or longer if the
person is not receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART). During this stage, the
virus continues to replicate at low levels, and the person may not
experience any symptoms. However, the virus is still present and can be
transmitted.
3. AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome): Without treatment, HIV

infection progresses to AIDS over time. AIDS is the most advanced stage of
HIV infection and is characterized by a severely weakened immune system,
making the person vulnerable to opportunistic infections and certain
cancers.
It is important to note that with effective antiretroviral therapy, HIV can be

managed, and progression to AIDS can be prevented.:
4. Cause
HIV is transmitted through the exchange of certain body fluids, including:
= blood, semen, vaginal secretions, and breast milk.

The most common modes of transmission include;
= unprotected sexual contact with an infected person.
= sharing needles or other drug injection equipment with an infected person.
= mother-to-child transmission during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.
5. Signs and Symptoms

The initial symptoms of HIV infection can vary from person to person and may resemble those
of a flu-like illness, including fever, chills, rash, night sweats, muscle aches, sore throat, fatigue,
swollen lymph nodes, and mouth ulcers. As the disease progresses, more severe symptoms
may develop, such as weight loss, chronic diarrhea, pneumonia, and opportunistic infections.
6. Diagnostic Findings
1. HIV antibody test.
2. HIV viral load test.
7. Pathophysiology
Once the virus get into human body the virus infects the CD4 cells, which are a type of T cells
that play a central role in the immune response.
Once inside the host cell, the virus replicates and produces new viral particles, which can then
affect other cells.
As the virus continues to replicate,the immune system becomes progressively compromised,

leading to a weakened immunity or ability to fight off infections and the development of AIDs.
7. Preventive Measures
= practicing safe sex, using condoms consistently and correctly.
= avoiding sharing needles or other drug injection equipment.
= getting tested and knowing your HIV status.
= Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for individuals at high risk of HIV exposure.
Additionally, mother-to-child transmission can be prevented through antiretroviral therapy

during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
8. Predisposing/Risk Factors
* Unprotected sexual contact.
* sharing needles or other drug injection equipment.
* mother-to-child transmission during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.
* Multiple sexual partners, engage in high-risk sexual behaviors, or have a history of sexually
transmitted infections are at increased risk of HIV infection.
9. Nursing Responsibility/Management
Nurses play a crucial role in the care and management of individuals with HIV.
Nursing responsibilities include:
1. Providing education and counseling on HIV prevention and safe sex practices.
2. Conducting HIV testing and counseling.
3. Administering antiretroviral therapy and monitoring treatment adherence.
4. Managing symptoms and side effects, and promoting a supportive and non-judgmental
environment for patients living with HIV.
5. providing holistic care to individuals living with the virus.
6. Assessing for signs and symptoms of opportunistic infections, promoting adherence to

antiretroviral therapy.
7. Psychotheraly providing emotional support.
8. Coping strategies, and addressing any barriers to care or medication adherence.
11. Medical Management
Medical management of HIV involves:
1. The use of antiretroviral therapy (ART) to suppress the virus and improve immune function.
Examples of antiretroviral drugs include:
- Nucleoside/nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs): such as zidovudine, tenofovir

- Non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs): such as efavirenz, nevirapine
- Protease inhibitors (PIs): such as atazanavir, darunavir
- Integrase strand transfer inhibitors (INSTIs): such as raltegravir, dolutegravir.
2. Regular monitoring of CD4 cell counts and viral loads is essential to assess the effectiveness
of treatment and identify any potential complications.
Note: Normal CD4 Count is typically 500-1500 cells per cubic millimeter of blood.
In summary, HIV is a virus that attacks the immune system and can lead to the development of
AIDS if left untreated. It is transmitted through the exchange of certain body fluids and can be
diagnosed through blood tests. Preventive measures include safe sex practices, avoiding needle
sharing, and using PrEP for high-risk individuals. Nurses play a crucial role in the care and
management of individuals with HIV, providing education, support, and medication management.
Medical management includes the use of antiretroviral therapy to suppress the virus and
improve immune function. Psychotherapy and support groups can help individuals cope with
the emotional impact of HIV. Overall, a multidisciplinary approach is essential to effectively
manage HIV and improve the quality of life for those living with the Virus.
💞 MED-MIND DYNASTY 💞💞
Thanks best of luck 🙏🙏

HIV by (MED-MIND DYNASTY)

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29/07/2024

HUMAN IMMUNODEFICIENCY VIRUS ( HIV )

( 💞 MED-MIND DYNASTY 💞💞)

HIV infection progresses through several stages, each with its

2. Clinical Latency Stage (Chronic HIV Infection): Also known as the

3. AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome): Without treatment, HIV

It is important to note that with effective antiretroviral therapy, HIV can be

= blood, semen, vaginal secretions, and breast milk.

= unprotected sexual contact with an infected person.

= sharing needles or other drug injection equipment with an infected person.

= mother-to-child transmission during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.

5. Signs and Symptoms

2. HIV viral load test.

As the virus continues to replicate,the immune system becomes progressively compromised,

= practicing safe sex, using condoms consistently and correctly.

= avoiding sharing needles or other drug injection equipment.

= getting tested and knowing your HIV status.

= Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for individuals at high risk of HIV exposure.

Additionally, mother-to-child transmission can be prevented through antiretroviral therapy

* Unprotected sexual contact.

* sharing needles or other drug injection equipment.

* mother-to-child transmission during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.

Nursing responsibilities include:

2. Conducting HIV testing and counseling.

3. Administering antiretroviral therapy and monitoring treatment adherence.

5. providing holistic care to individuals living with the virus.

6. Assessing for signs and symptoms of opportunistic infections, promoting adherence to

7. Psychotheraly providing emotional support.

8. Coping strategies, and addressing any barriers to care or medication adherence.

11. Medical Management

Medical management of HIV involves:

Examples of antiretroviral drugs include:

- Nucleoside/nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs): such as zidovudine, tenofovir

- Protease inhibitors (PIs): such as atazanavir, darunavir

- Integrase strand transfer inhibitors (INSTIs): such as raltegravir, dolutegravir.

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