A community health nurse is working to develop a program to address the problem of HIV/AIDS in maternal and child health populations and mother-to-child transmission. Which area would be most important for the nurse to focus on?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Most children with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) are children of HIV-positive mothers (WHO, 2015a). Thus, mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of HIV is a key focus area. It can be almost fully prevented with antiretroviral treatment for mother and infant (WHO, 2015a). To reduce MTCT, women must seek prenatal care early enough in their pregnancies for the antiretroviral drug to be effective. Safer sex practices would be important in reducing the risk of HIV transmission, not MTCT. Handwashing practices and nutritional supplements would not be effective in addressing the problem of MTCT.

A Community Health Nurse Is Working to Develop a Program