The nurse understands the most significant laboratory study for the client who is HIV positive is the
A) CD4+ cell count.
B) enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) test.
C) total white blood cell count.
D) Western blot test.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The most recent classification system for HIV disease in adults and adolescents is based on two monitoring parameters used to follow a client: (1) laboratory data (CD4⁺ cell count) and (2) clinical presentation (the person's clinical manifestations of diseases). The Western blot test would be used to confirm the diagnosis of HIV, which is done with the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay test. The total white blood cell count can indicate infection, but is not specific for HIV.

The Nurse Understands the Most Significant Laboratory Study for the Client