Question

A woman infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) has given birth to an infant who appears normal, and the nurse provides instructions about newborn infant care. Which statement by the mother indicates an understanding of the instructions?

Option 1: "I am going to need to bottle-feed my baby."
Option 2: "I need to wash my hands before and after bathroom use."
Option 3: "I can transmit the infection to my baby when I breast-feed."
Option 4: "My baby won't need any medication to prevent the virus because my baby appears normal."
Option 5: "I am going to contact some support groups to help me cope and learn ways to deal with things when I get home."

Answer 1

The correct answer is Option 1, showing the mother's understanding that she needs to bottle-feed her baby to prevent HIV transmission through breast milk. Option 3 also shows understanding of transmission risks, and Option 5 shows awareness of the importance of support groups.

Step-by-step explanation:

When considering education on the prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV, it's important to highlight the fact that a woman infected with HIV can transmit the virus to her infant through breastfeeding. Given the options, the statement which indicates a correct understanding of the instructions related to newborn infant care by an HIV infected mother is: "I am going to need to bottle-feed my baby." This is because bottle-feeding eliminates the risk of HIV transmission through breast milk.

Option 3, which states "I can transmit the infection to my baby when I breast-feed," is also a correct understanding as it recognizes the risk of transmission through breast milk. However, it's important to follow-up with healthcare providers to discuss medication and other strategies to prevent the virus transmission to the baby, regardless of the baby's initial normal appearance as per Option 4.

Finally, Option 5, suggesting to contact support groups, also reflects a good understanding of the need for ongoing support and education, which are crucial for dealing with the broader aspects of having a chronic health condition like HIV.