Hepatitis C virus/HIV coinfection: a new challenge for nurses in AIDS care.
HIV-infected patients are living longer owing to effective treatment with highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). As a result, the extent and impact of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in this patient population are now becoming apparent. HIV infection accelerates the progression of HCV to cirrhosis, endstage liver disease, and death. The presence of each disease also influences treatment of the other, and appropriate management of side effects (e.g., anemia, neutropenia, depression) is crucial for treatment success. The HIV nurse is well positioned to treat, counsel, and support the HIV/HCV-coinfected patient by encouraging screening and providing education on the side effects of treatment, the means of managing side effects, and the resources available to assist in problems of substance abuse and depression.
Advanced Practice Program, New York University, AIDS Center, Mount Sinai Hospital, New York, USA.
Richard S
RS
Ferri
Carl A
CA
Kirton
D017088:AIDS-Related Opportunistic Infections / Q000451:nursing; D019380:Anti-HIV Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage; D000998:Antiviral Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage; D018450:Disease Progression; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000150:complications* / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000451:nursing*; D006526:Hepatitis C / Q000150:complications* / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000451:nursing*; D006801:Humans
D019380:Anti-HIV Agents; D000998:Antiviral Agents