Final answer:
Before an HIV test, applicants must sign a consent form. The hospital finds it necessary to test every patient for HIV to minimize liability and commence early treatment. HIV is diagnosed with tests like the indirect ELISA.
Step-by-step explanation:
Before an HIV test is performed on an applicant, it is essential that the applicant signs a consent form. This is a protocol that serves multiple purposes. It ensures that the applicant has been fully informed about the HIV testing process, understands the potential repercussions, and consents to undergo the testing procedure voluntarily. In addition to written consent, in some scenarios, pre-test counseling by the insurer or the testing institution may be provided to prepare the individual for the possible outcomes and implications of the test results.
The necessity for testing every patient for HIV often arises in a scenario where there has been a potential exposure to the virus, such as through a healthcare provider's malpractice or other incidents that put patients at risk. Diagnostic tests for HIV typically include antibody tests like the indirect ELISA, as well as combination or nucleic acid tests (NAT) to detect the presence of the virus. Early detection and prompt treatment are crucial as they can slow down the progression of the disease and minimize the potential for hospital liability through proactive measures.