A Pregnant Woman with a History of Asymptomatic HIV Infection

question 11

Multiple Choice

A pregnant woman with a history of asymptomatic HIV infection is seen at the clinic. Which information will the nurse include when teaching the patient?

• A) Although infants of HIV-infected mothers always test positive for HIV antibodies, most infants are not infected with the virus.
• B) Because she has not developed AIDS, the infant will not contract HIV during intrauterine life.
• C) The infant will be started on zidovudine (AZT) after delivery to prevent HIV infection.
• D) It is likely that her newborn will develop HIV infection unless she takes antiretroviral drugs during the pregnancy.

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Definitions:

Gene Pair

Two alleles located on corresponding positions of a pair of chromosomes that determine a specific genetic trait.

Chromosomes

Structures within cells that contain DNA and carry genetic information critical for the development, function, and reproduction of organisms.

Gene Code

The sequences of DNA and RNA that carry genetic information necessary for the coding of proteins and the synthesis of molecules essential for an organism's development.

Human Characteristics

Traits, features, or qualities that define human beings, including biological, psychological, and cultural aspects.