HIV infection is spread by?

Appeared in: P.CHO-2019

Explanation

Virus, as HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus.
HIV is a specific type of virus known as a retrovirus, belonging to the lentivirus family.
It primarily targets and destroys CD4+ T-helper cells, which are essential components of the human immune system.
The destruction of these cells weakens the body's ability to fight off infections and certain cancers, eventually leading to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS).

Option B: Bacteria are a different class of microorganisms. They cause diseases like tuberculosis or strep throat, which are treated with antibiotics, not antiretrovirals.
Option C: Fungi are another distinct kingdom of organisms. While fungal infections (like Pneumocystis pneumonia or Candidiasis) are common opportunistic infections in people with advanced AIDS, fungi are not the cause of HIV itself.
Option D: This option is incorrect because the causative agent, a virus, is listed as the first option.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: Knowing Causative agent of HIV infection helps nurses interpret findings accurately and avoid errors in routine assessment, medication administration, and patient teaching.
Understanding that HIV is a virus is fundamental to nursing care, as it dictates the use of antiretroviral therapy (ART), not antibiotics or antifungals.
Nurses play a key role in patient education regarding transmission and prevention, emphasizing that HIV is spread through specific bodily fluids and not casual contact, which helps reduce stigma.
Universal Precautions are critical in all healthcare settings to prevent occupational transmission. This includes using gloves, safe disposal of sharps, and implementing Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) immediately after a potential exposure.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core subject of the question, which is 'HIV infection'.
Recall the full name for the acronym HIV: Human Immunodeficiency Virus.
The term 'Virus' in its name directly indicates the type of pathogen it is.
Scan the given options: 'Virus', 'Bacteria', 'Fungi', 'None of these'.
Select the option that matches your knowledge from the acronym's full form.
Eliminate the other options as they represent different classes of microorganisms with different characteristics and treatment methods.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Pathology-Textbook of PATHOLOGYHarsh Mohan Part 1 (1-214) p. 153-155

E6 Medicine Davidson Principles Practice 24e p. 329-331

E6 Parks TextBook of Preventive & Social Medicine part 1 — Subpart C (pp 404-604 of 604) p. 11-13

Practise the full P.CHO-2019

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.