CEA Nursing Practice Exam

In discussing treatment options for HIV, which statement indicates a clear understanding of available therapeutic agents?

1. Only protease inhibitors are effective

2. All of these may be used to manage my disease

3. Nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors are the only option

4. Non-nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitors are less effective

The correct answer is: All of these may be used to manage my disease

The affirmation that all available therapeutic agents may be used to manage HIV reflects a comprehensive understanding of the treatment landscape for this condition. HIV is managed through a combination of antiretroviral therapies, which include several classes of medications that work synergistically to suppress the virus and improve immune function. The use of multiple classes such as nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs), non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs), protease inhibitors (PIs), integrase strand transfer inhibitors (INSTIs), and entry inhibitors is critical. This multi-faceted approach allows for personalized treatment regimens that can adapt to a patient's specific needs, potential drug resistance, and side effects. Recognizing that a combination of various agents is not only possible but often necessary underscores the complexity of HIV treatment. This approach helps maximize viral suppression, improves the quality of life, and reduces the likelihood of drug resistance, thereby ensuring a more effective long-term management strategy.