A Patient Has Just Been Diagnosed as HIV-Positive

Multiple Choice

A patient has just been diagnosed as HIV-positive.He asks the nurse,"Does this mean I have AIDS?" Which response would be most informative?

A) "Most people get AIDS within 3 to 12 weeks after they are infected with HIV."
B) "Don't worry.You may never get AIDS if you eat properly,exercise,and get plenty of rest."
C) "It varies with every individual,but the average time is 8 to 10 years from the time a person is infected,and some go much longer."
D) "You can expect to develop signs and symptoms of AIDS within 6 months."