Page 2181 - Saunders Comprehensive Review For NCLEX-RN

with antiseptic, and dispose of the tick by flushing it
down the toilet; the tick may also be placed in a
sealed jar so that the primary health care provider can
inspect it and determine its type.
2. Perform a blood test 4 to 6 weeks after a bite to detect
the presence of the disease (testing before this time is
not reliable).
3. Instruct the client in the administration of antibiotics
as prescribed; these are initiated immediately (even
before the blood testing results are known).
4. Instruct the client to avoid areas that contain ticks,
such as wooded grassy areas, especially in the
summer months.
5. Instruct the client to wear long-sleeved tops, long
pants, closed shoes, and hats while outside.
6. Instruct the client to spray the body with tick repellent
before going outside.
7. Instruct the client to examine the body when returning
inside for the presence of ticks.
XIII. Immunodeficiency Syndrome
A. Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS)

1. AIDS is a viral disease caused by HIV, which

destroys T cells, thereby increasing susceptibility to
infection and malignancy (Fig. 62-6).
2. The syndrome is manifested clinically by
opportunistic infections and unusual neoplasms.
3. AIDS is considered a chronic illness.
4. The disease has a long incubation period, sometimes
10 years or longer.
5. Manifestations may not appear until late in the
infection.
B. Diagnosis and monitoring of the client with AIDS
1. Refer to Box 62-4 for tests used to evaluate the
progression of HIV infection.
2. Refer to Box 62-5 for information used to diagnose
AIDS.
C. High-risk groups
1. Heterosexual or homosexual contact with high-risk
individuals
2. Intravenous drug abusers
3. Persons receiving blood products
4. Health care workers
5. Babies born to infected mothers

D. Assessment

1. Malaise, fever, anorexia, weight loss, influenza-like

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