The nurse is teaching an HIV-positive client who just delivered an HIV-positive full-term infant. Which statement by the client indicates a need for further teaching?
“The antiviral medicines will cure my baby in about six months.”
“There is a low risk of my baby transmitting the virus to household members.”
“I should completely avoid breastfeeding my baby and purchase formula instead.”
“Pneumonia and herpes simplex are common secondary infections my baby may develop.”
Number 1 is correct.
Rationale: The current goal of antiviral therapy is to reduce the viral load for undetectable levels. At this time there is no indication that antiviral therapy cures HIV. There is a low risk of transferring HIV from the infant to other household members. HIV-positive mothers should not breastfeed but instead purchase formula based on the health care provider’s guidance. Many secondary infections are common to HIV-positive infants, including pneumonia and herpes simplex. The infant should be closely monitored for these developments.
