Question 1

Which of the following best describes the primary mechanism by which HIV impairs the immune system?

Accepted Answer

HIV infects and depletes CD4+ T cells, compromising cell-mediated immunity.

Question 2

A 32-year-old man presents with fever, sore throat, and lymphadenopathy two weeks after unprotected sex. His rapid HIV test is negative. What is the most appropriate next step?

Accepted Answer

Order a nucleic acid test (NAT) for HIV.

Question 3

Which of the following statements about antiretroviral therapy (ART) is CORRECT?

Accepted Answer

Combination ART regimens are preferred to reduce the risk of viral resistance.

Question 4

A patient with HIV has a CD4 count of 150/mm$$^3$$ and is asymptomatic. Which prophylactic intervention is most appropriate?

Accepted Answer

Start prophylaxis for Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia (PJP).

Question 5

Which of the following is a common early clinical manifestation of HIV infection?

Accepted Answer

Acute mononucleosis-like illness

Question 6

A healthcare worker sustains a needlestick injury from a patient with known HIV. What is the most appropriate initial management?

Accepted Answer

Begin post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) within 72 hours.

Question 7

Which of the following best explains why Kaposi sarcoma is considered an AIDS-defining illness?

Accepted Answer

It is a cancer strongly associated with severe immunosuppression and late-stage HIV.

Question 8

A 25-year-old woman with HIV is planning to become pregnant. Which of the following is the most effective strategy to reduce the risk of vertical transmission to her infant?

Accepted Answer

Administering prophylactic ART during pregnancy and delivery

Question 9

Which of the following is a major risk factor for HIV transmission in the United States today?

Accepted Answer

Unprotected sexual intercourse

Question 10

A patient with HIV is started on a protease inhibitor. Which of the following side effects should the nurse monitor for?

Accepted Answer

Elevated cholesterol and triglycerides

Question 11

Which of the following diagnostic tests is most appropriate for confirming a positive HIV screening result?

Accepted Answer

HIV-1/HIV-2 differentiation immunoassay

Question 12

A 3-month-old infant born to an HIV-positive mother is being evaluated for HIV infection. Which test is most appropriate?

Accepted Answer

HIV DNA polymerase chain reaction (PCR)

Question 13

Which of the following is a key nursing intervention to promote medication adherence in patients with HIV?

Accepted Answer

Assess patient readiness and use behavior modification with positive reinforcement.

Question 14

A patient with HIV presents with oral thrush and a CD4 count of 180/mm$$^3. $$Which of the following is the most likely explanation?

Accepted Answer

The patient is experiencing an opportunistic infection due to immunosuppression.

Question 15

Which of the following statements about HIV prevention is CORRECT?

Accepted Answer

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is over 99% effective when combined with other prevention methods.

Question 16

A 60-year-old man is newly diagnosed with HIV. Which of the following is a unique consideration in his care compared to younger adults?

Accepted Answer

Increased risk of drug interactions with ART medications

Question 17

A patient with HIV is prescribed St. John's wort for depression. What is the most appropriate nursing action?

Accepted Answer

Advise the patient that St. John's wort is contraindicated with antiretroviral therapy.

Question 18

Which of the following best describes the role of reverse transcriptase in HIV replication?

Accepted Answer

It converts viral RNA into DNA, allowing integration into the host genome.

Question 19

A 16-year-old adolescent with HIV struggles with medication adherence. Which factor is most likely contributing to this challenge?

Accepted Answer

Developmental need for autonomy and risk-taking behaviors

Question 20

A patient with HIV develops progressive memory loss, confusion, and motor disturbances. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

Accepted Answer

AIDS dementia complex

HIV/AIDS: Immunity, Pathophysiology, Clinical Manifestations, and Nursing Care

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