HIV Clinical Resource Area

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)/ Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is an increasing disease state found among populations all over the globe. This illness state can be contracted by any age. The disease is routinely diagnosed in persons from birth to geriatric. There is no society or culture excluded or immune to this chronic illness.

The infected individual does not necessarily develop the disease state immediately following virus exposure. Infants born to an infected mother can test positive for the virus as early as the first weeks of life. Healthy persons with an exposure that occurs later in life may not convert from a state of health to an infected state for months or in some cases years later. The human carrying the virus can remain a carrier without the active disease for a prolonged period.

The world of medicine and science has aided those living with this disease. The advancement and proficient use of antiretroviral therapies has greatly extended survival of victims. This is especially true in the developed countries of the globe.

Oncology nurse need to have an awareness of HIV/AIDS as a disease and maintain a knowledgeable approach to available antineoplastic agents in treatment of AIDS related malignancies. AIDS patient afford a unique set of oncology needs and treatment requirements.