HIV

Question 1

What does HIV stand for?

Answer 1

Human Immunodeficiency Virus

Question 2

What specific immune cells does HIV attack?

Answer 2

CD4 T Cells

Question 3

What condition can develop when HIV severely damages the immune system?

Answer 3

AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome)

Question 4

Is there currently a vaccine for HIV?

Answer 4

No

Question 5

What type of medication is used to treat HIV?

Answer 5

Antiretroviral drugs

Question 6

List two body fluids that can transmit HIV:

Answer 6

Blood and semen (also acceptable: vaginal discharge, breastmilk, pus, vomit)

Question 7

Name two early symptoms of HIV infection:

Answer 7

Fever and sore throat (also acceptable: fatigue, enlarged lymph nodes)

Question 8

What is the typical incubation period for HIV before symptoms of AIDS appear?

Answer 8

8 to 10 years

Question 9

In what year did HIV become a notifiable disease?

Answer 9

2017

Question 10

What is the estimated risk of HIV transmission from a needlestick injury in a healthcare setting?

Answer 10

Less than 1%.

Question 11

What happens during the asymptomatic phase of HIV?

Answer 11

The person has no symptoms, but the virus is still active and gradually weakening the immune system.

Question 12

How can HIV be transmitted in a reprocessing environment?

Answer 12

Through needlestick injuries, cuts, or contact with contaminated body fluids.

Question 13

In what year did AIDS become notifiable?

Answer 13

1983

Question 14

How do you protect yourself from occupational exposure to blood borne diseases like HIV?

Answer 14

• Wearing gloves that are correctly fitted when handling all instruments during the cleaning process.
• Putting on PPE correctly and removing it properly.
• Wearing protective eyewear (we are dealing with chemicals and blood).
• Wearing a fluid-resistant gown over surgical scrubs so it doesn’t seep through.