AIDS

Question 1

What is it?

Answer 1

the body’s natural defence mechanisms against infection is seriously impaired - experience infections not normally serious to others. Fatal, not cure nor vaccination
The progress of the disease can be delayed by use of antiviral and other drugs to boost immune system. Number of pt contracting disease has increased due to ignoring safety measures.

Question 2

What is it?

Answer 2

caused by infection with HIV - found in most body fluids and transmitted by blood contact.
Usually takes years before they suffer any effects and no special symptoms so people are unaware - diagnosed by blood test

Question 3

Infectivity

Answer 3

not infective or resistant to heat/destruction - repeated exposure to HIV in blood or body fluids is usually required for transmission of AIDS
sexual promiscuity, needle sharing with drug addicts, child birth and repeated transfusions with contaminated blood.
1 in 300 chance of contracting AIDS with sharps injury

Question 4

High risk groups

Answer 4

sexually promiscuous, drug addicts, haemophiliacs and long term blood transfusions, sexual partners of these groups, infants born to infected mothers

Question 5

Prevention

Answer 5

avoid sexual promiscuity or sharing needles with drug addicts
correct sterilisation and surgery hygiene procedures
dentists may be the first healthcare workers to see early signs of AIDS as some unusual mouth conditions may occur for no apparent reason. Early referral may be life-saving

Question 6

Treatment of known carriers

Answer 6

some are unaware of infection so follow standard precautions in infection control policy
ethically and legally essential that medical history cannot be heard anywhere else in the practice