Life expectancy remains about 10 to 15 years after initial infection. Universal precautions for blood and other body fluids are strictly observed. The nurse teaches the patient about transmission of infectious agents through infected blood or other body fluids and reviews measures to prevent transmission. Prescribed drug therapy is administered, and the patient is taught to identify and report adverse effects. The patient is encouraged to maintain as much physical activity as is tolerable, allowing time for both exercise and rest.
Supportive care is provided for fatigue, anorexia, and fever.
Meticulous skin care, with protection from diarrhea and excoriation, is provided, especially for the debilitated patient. Caloric intake is recorded, and the need for small, frequent meals, nutritional supplements, or parenteral nutrition is assessed. Fluid status is monitored and adequate intake ensured. The nurse assists the patient to obtain social service support and funds for housing, food, and medication and for inpatient, outpatient, and hospice care. Taber's Cyclopedic Medical Dictionary, Edition 18.