The nurse is providing care to a patient who is diagnosed with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).The patient has shortness of breath when walking,but no problems breathing at rest.Which is the most likely cause for this clinical manifestation?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Shortness of breath when walking is a classic symptom of Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia (PCP) in patients with HIV. PCP is an opportunistic infection that occurs in patients with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV. The fact that the patient does not experience shortness of breath at rest suggests that the problem may be related to increased demand for oxygen during activity, rather than a chronic or longstanding issue related to their HIV status.

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