Family Nurse Practitioner Exam

What is a key focus of treatment for patients with AIDS and CD4 counts of less than 200/mm?

1. Administering an MMR vaccine

2. Preventive therapy for toxoplasmosis

3. Preventive therapy for Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia

4. Evaluation of the home environment

The correct answer is: Preventive therapy for Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia

The key focus of treatment for patients with AIDS and CD4 counts of less than 200/mm is the preventive therapy for Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia (PCP). Individuals with such low CD4 counts are at a significantly elevated risk for opportunistic infections, with PCP being one of the most common and serious infections in this population. Prophylaxis for PCP typically involves the use of medications like trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX), which is aimed at preventing the onset of this pneumonia, thus improving patient outcomes and survival. This intervention is critical because PCP can cause severe respiratory distress and can be life-threatening, especially in those with severely compromised immune systems. While preventive measures for other infections, such as toxoplasmosis, and vaccinations can be relevant considerations in the broader context of managing patients with HIV/AIDS, the immediate priority for patients with CD4 counts below the threshold of 200/mm focuses squarely on preventing PCP due to its high incidence and potential lethality in this vulnerable group. Therefore, starting PCP prophylaxis is a fundamental aspect of care for these patients to enhance their quality of life and prevent acute deterioration.