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The Health Care Provider Ordered An Hiv Test Based On The Patient 's Narrative And His Positive Tb Status

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The health care provider ordered an HIV test based on the patient’s narrative and his positive TB status. Tuberculosis infection is frequently an initial indication of HIV infection. Therefore, it is routine to test patients with TB for HIV. Also, the patient complains of being run-down and sick all of the time, which could be a sign that his immune system is impaired.
The presence of any other opportunistic infections or malignancies may also be indicative of HIV. Opportunistic infections occur when typically harmless microorganisms are able to cause disease in individuals who are immunocompromised. Common opportunistic infections in HIV-positive patients include: Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia, candidiasis, toxoplasmosis, diarrhea caused by Cryptosporidium parvum, progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) caused by the JC virus, and many others. Kaposi sarcoma, an opportunistic malignancy, is a major indicator of HIV infection. This cancer occurs only in individuals who are severely immunocompromised and manifests as lesions on the skin and mucous membranes.
Mr. A’s statement reflects the need for further education about HIV transmission. The nurse should inform Mr. A that HIV is primarily spread through unprotected sexual intercourse and by sharing contaminated needles for intravenous drug use. Individuals engaging in risky sexual behaviors (e.g. unprotected anal intercourse) are at highest risk for contracting HIV, regardless of sexual orientation. The nurse

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