The nurse is counseling a pregnant client who is HIV positive. Which information is appropriate to discuss?

Question

The nurse is counseling a pregnant client who is HIV positive.  Which information is appropriate to discuss?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Perinatal transmission of HIV infection can occur from mother to baby anytime during the antepartum, intrapartum, or postpartum periods. Maternal antiretroviral therapy (ART) during pregnancy is imperative for decreasing viral load (amount of virus detectable in maternal serum) and decreasing risk of transmission to the fetus. (Option A) HIV can be transmitted to the newborn via breast milk. Breastfeeding is contraindicated for HIV-positive mothers in developed countries, where safe alternatives (eg, commercial formula) are available. (Option B) In addition to routine newborn care, infants born to HIV-positive clients should receive ART at birth and for at least 4-6 weeks after birth to reduce the chance of developing HIV infection. Infants are tested for HIV infection at birth and again at age 1 and 4 months. Identification of HIV-negative status requires 2 consecutive negative results at age ≥1 month and ≥4 months. (Option D) Pregnant clients who are HIV positive are immunocompromised and at increased risk for other infections. They should receive all inactivated vaccines that are recommended for the general pregnant population, such as tetanus-diphtheria-pertussis and intramuscular influenza. Live vaccines (eg, measles-mumps-rubella) are not given during pregnancy. Educational objective: Transmission of HIV infection from mother to baby can occur during antepartum, intrapartum, or postpartum periods. Maternal antiretroviral therapy (ART) during pregnancy is imperative for decreasing the risk of perinatal transmission. Pregnant clients who are HIV positive should receive recommended inactivated vaccines. Newborns born to HIV-positive clients should not breastfeed and should receive 4-6 weeks of ART after birth.

The Nurse Is Counseling a Pregnant Client Who Is HIV