and

Data Collection

HIV-positive patients have a damaged immune system, increasing their risk of opportunistic infection. The risk of opportunistic infection is decreased by compliance with antiretroviral therapy and preventive medications such as co-trimoxazole. A patient’s lifestyle and nutrition also dictate the occurrence of opportunistic infections such as cough (Justiz & Naik, 2022).

Common Labwork/Diagnostics:

ELISA test

CD4+ T-cell count

Viral load

Liver function test

Thyroid function test

Assessment Data (consider subjective, objective, and health history):

Subjective data: Current medications, social history, general and respiratory system review.

Objective data: Physical examination, vital signs, and respiratory assessment.

Infection-related to HIV, as evidenced by the patient complaining they have not been feeling well lately and have a dry cough.

Nursing Diagnosis:

Hyperthermia related to HIV infection, as evidenced by the patient’s temperature of 102 degrees Fahrenheit, pulse rate of 102 beats per minute, and respiratory rate of 28 breaths per minute.

Nursing Diagnosis

Anxiety related to a new situation, as evidenced by the patient’s complaints of dry cough, chilling, and feeling unwell.

To prevent progression and treat existing infections (Justiz & Naik, 2022).

SMART Goal:

To stabilize the patient’s temperature back to the normal range within at least four hours of admission (Justiz & Naik, 2022).

SMART Goal:

To reduce the patient’s anxiety level.

2. Ensure symptomatic relief by treating the patient’s symptoms, such as dry cough.

1. Adjust the room temperature and advise the patient to remove excess clothing to improve the patient’s comfort and regulate temperature (Nguyen et al., 2022).

2. Use antipyretics and a tepid sponge bath to decrease fever and cool down the body.

1. Assess the patient’s anxiety level to