When teaching a client with HIV about the management of the disease, what are important points to discuss?

AIDS is the Human Immunodeficiency Syndrome, transmitted by the HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus), characterized by the weakening of the body's defense system and the appearance of opportunistic diseases.

Finding out HIV-positive certainly gives a great initial shock, which reveals insecurities and fears. Although, with the medical advances, the reality of living with HIV / AIDS has changed dramatically in recent years: efficient and well-tolerated medications, early diagnosis, diminishing stigma, and effective health policies.

1) The medicines (treatment)

The treatment already allows the infected person to work, play sports, date, have children, etc. The reality of patients has changed, but it still requires effort and commitment for a lifetime. Still a lot of medicines to take and also there is the side effect of the medication. But if you live a healthy life (eat correctly, exercise often etc) could be better for the patient.

Be aware that antiretrovirals are capable of containing the infection but are not yet able to eliminate all viruses from the body. In the body, HIV can get out of the bloodstream and hide in organs, such as the brain, where drug assets have difficulty reaching . So its important to always take care of life with medical professionals.

2) The transmission

The HIV virus is transmitted through unprotected sexual relations (without a condom) with a HIV-positive person, that is, who already has the HIV virus, by sharing contaminated sharps such as needles, pliers, etc. ., from an untreated seropositive mother to her child during pregnancy, childbirth or breastfeeding. Its important to understand how the transmission goes, because its a way to prevent other people.

An HIV positive person can quietly relate to someone without the virus. Just take extra precautions to minimize the risk of infection. Like your partner, the seronegative should also have regular checkups. And it is recommended to use condoms and certain medications before and after sex, which decrease your chance of getting HIV.

3) Dealing with emotional issues

Monitoring mental health for HIV-positive people is extremely important, not only because of the difficulty in receiving the diagnosis, but also in thinking about the support network and whether it will be necessary to share the diagnosis with any family member, and also in the construction of future affective relationships. People who have HIV can relate to people who do not have the virus, and this is more common than we think.