A patient, age 28, has a history of IV drug use and has tested positive for HIV. About 2 weeks ago, she delivered a baby who has tested positive for HIV. This patient will not care for the baby because she believes the baby will die soon. In counseling her about the care of her infant, which approach by the nurse is most appropriate?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The decline in pediatric AIDS incidence is associated with the increased compliance with universal counseling and testing of pregnant women and the use of zidovudine by HIV-infected pregnant women and their newborn infants. Infants born to HIV-infected mothers will have positive HIV antibody results as long as 15 to 18 months after birth. This is caused by maternal antibodies that cross the placenta during gestation and remain in the infant's circulatory system.

A Patient, Age 28, Has a History of IV Drug