Question

A client with a history of using illicit drugs intravenously is admitted with Kaposi's sarcoma. Which intervention should the nurse include in this client's admission plan of care?

Answer 1

A nurse admitting a client with Kaposi's sarcoma and IV drug use history should perform a medical assessment, administer antiretroviral medications if HIV-positive, educate on HIV transmission prevention, provide psychosocial support, and manage the Kaposi's sarcoma lesions.

Step-by-step explanation:

A client presenting with Kaposi's sarcoma and a history of intravenous drug use should be managed with a holistic approach that considers their medical and social history. Given the strong association between Kaposi's sarcoma and immunosuppression, particularly with HIV/AIDs, the nurse should include the following interventions in the client's admission plan of care:

• Perform a thorough medical assessment, including checking for opportunistic infections and other HIV-related conditions.
• Administer appropriate antiretroviral medications if the patient is HIV-positive to control viral load and restore immune function.
• Provide education on harm-reduction strategies to prevent further transmission of HIV, such as needle exchange programs and safe injection practices.
• Offer psychosocial support and refer to substance abuse treatment programs to address the patient's history of drug use.
• Manage the Kaposi's sarcoma lesions with appropriate oncological therapies and symptom control.