condom off the penis, being careful that the semen does not spill out. ● Wrap the condom in a tissue and dispose of it in the trash. ● If the condom breaks at any time during sexual activity, stop immediately, withdraw, remove the broken condom, and put on a new condom. ● Ensure adequate lubrication during vaginal and anal sex to avoid tears in the condom. Use water-based, not oil- based, lubricants.
The following are recommended when teaching correct condom use (HIV.gov, 2020a; Mayo Clinic, 2020). ● Use a latex condom. ● Use a new condom for every act of vaginal, anal, and oral sex. The condom should be applied before any genital contact and worn throughout the entire sex act. ● If the condom lacks a reservoir tip, pinch the tip when applying, leaving about a half-inch space to collect semen. Holding the tip, unroll the condom all the way to the base of the erect penis. ● After ejaculation and before the penis becomes soft, grip the rim of the condom and withdraw. Then pull the
CONSIDERATIONS FOR FAMILIES LIVING WITH HIV INFECTIONS
Issues that families, friends, and coworkers may need help addressing include the following (Carpenter, 2020). ● Transmission prevention. ● Impact of HIV treatment regimen and how to facilitate adherence. ● Dealing with fear and discrimination; HIV infection is still, in some cases, a stigmatizing condition. ● Financial considerations regarding treatment. ● Coping with the possibility of death and resulting bereavement. ● Cultural considerations. ● How to discuss infection with children (both children who are infected and children whose parents or other loved ones are infected). ● How to teach children about prevention and safe sex practices. ● Evaluation and recognition of mental health issues that may develop as the result of the stress of the HIV diagnosis; such problems include depression and anxiety. practices, such as regular HIV testing, condom use, and regular medical follow-ups (world health organization, 2023). Prep has been a critical tool in HIV prevention efforts, particularly among high-risk populations. Concerns exist within the transgender community regarding potential interactions between hormone therapies, such as estrogens and antiandrogen medications, and prep. Current knowledge about these interactions remains limited, but research is ongoing. Healthcare Consideration: Studies show that when PrEP is consistently taken as directed, it can substantially reduce the risk of HIV infection, effectively lowering it to nearly zero when compared to individuals who do not take the medication. Consequently, when healthcare professionals are assisting individuals on PrEP, it is essential to emphasize the significance of daily adherence to the prescribed regimen, in conjunction with the implementation of additional HIV prevention strategies. navigate the emotional challenges associated with the condition. ● Adherence to treatment : Counseling helps patients understand the importance of adhering to their treatment regimen. It can address any concerns or misconceptions they may have about medications and motivate them to stay on track with their therapy, which is crucial for viral suppression and overall well-being. ● Coping strategies : Living with a chronic illness like HIV/ AIDS can be overwhelming. Counseling equips patients with coping strategies to manage stress, improve resilience, and enhance quality of life.
The impact of HIV extends far beyond the individual directly affected by the virus; it ripples through their entire support network, including families and loved ones. Considering this, it becomes even more crucial that families, in addition to the patients themselves, receive the necessary support and counseling. HIV is not merely a medical condition; it’s a profound emotional and social challenge that can strain relationships, introduce uncertainty, and ignite fear within families. Providing support and counseling to families helps them navigate this journey together, fostering understanding, empathy, and resilience. It empowers family members to better comprehend the medical aspects of HIV, while also equipping them with the emotional tools to cope with the unique challenges that this diagnosis presents. By addressing the holistic needs of both patients and their families, healthcare professionals can contribute to a more comprehensive and effective approach to HIV care, strengthening the entire support system in the process. Transmission prevention Prep (preexposure prophylaxis) therapy is a biomedical HIV prevention strategy. It involves taking a prescription medication to reduce the risk of acquiring HIV infection before potential exposure to the virus. The primary medication used for prep is a combination of two antiretroviral drugs, usually tenofovir disoproxil fumarate and emtricitabine (brand name Truvada) or tenofovir alafenamide and emtricitabine (brand name descovy). Prep works by interfering with the ability of HIV to establish infection within the body. When taken as prescribed, it can significantly lower the risk of contracting HIV from sexual activity or injection drug use. Prep is typically recommended for individuals at high risk of HIV infection, such as those who have a partner with HIV, engage in condomless sex with multiple partners, or share needles or drug injection equipment. It's important to note that prep is not a standalone solution and should be used in conjunction with other safer sex Counseling The treatment of HIV/AIDS goes beyond the administration of antiretroviral therapy and medical interventions; it encompasses a holistic approach that recognizes the profound emotional, psychological, and social aspects of living with the virus. Counseling, for both the patient and their support system, plays an indispensable role in this comprehensive care strategy (Carpenter, 2020). For the patient : ● Emotional support : A diagnosis of HIV/AIDS can trigger a wide range of emotions, including fear, anxiety, depression, and stigma. Counseling provides a safe space for patients to express their feelings, helping them
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Book Code: MMD0724
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