The nurse is preparing a client with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) for discharge home. Which of the following statements by the client indicates a need for further teaching by the nurse?
“I do not need to limit my time in public places.”
“I may share food from serving dishes with others at a restaurant.”
“I may use public restrooms.”
“I may donate blood.”
Number 4 is correct.
Rationale: The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), which causes AIDS, is concentrated mostly in blood and semen. The client should not donate blood. Someone with HIV does not need to limit time in public places. As HIV is not transmitted by sharing food, there are no restrictions on this activity. Use of public restrooms by persons with HIV is an acceptable practice.
