Newly diagnosed
Patients who have just tested HIV+ often have many questions about HIV, HIV treatments, and their overall health. The stress and confusion that accompany a new diagnosis may leave patients unfocused and unsure about how or what to ask. The healthcare provider may need to prompt certain questions or anticipate them through detailed explanations of new procedures:
- Ask if the patient understands what lab tests are being performed, why they are performed, and what the results mean
- When appropriate, explain different treatment options in ways that are easy to understand, yet comprehensive enough to allow the patient to make informed decisions
- Ask about diet and lifestyle, and suggest changes as needed for overall health or to maximize the effectiveness of treatments