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HIV Test

Importance and benefits of HIV antibody testing


  • end anxiety of not knowing
  • to use information learned to take steps to live healthier
  • to gain knowledge of how to access medical care and treatment if necessary

Tests

ELISA Test - a screening test for HIV antibodies

WESTERN BLOT Test – if a test is positive on the ELISA screen, they are re-tested to confirm it is really positive.

Types of Testing

Nominal Testing – Results are linked to the person being tested by both the patient’s name and the physician’s name.

Non-nominal testing - Results can be linked to the person being tested by a code known only to the patient and the physician.

Anonymous Testing – Results can be linked to the person being tested by a code known only to the patient. Neither the physician ordering the test nor anyone else knows the identity of the person being tested.

Pretest Counselling

Provides basic information about HIV

  1. Discusses symptoms associated with HIV and that HIV does not mean a person has AIDS
  2. Explains that the test identifies antibodies to HIV – not the virus itself
  3. Explains the length of time it will take to get the test results
  4. Explains that a positive test result means the person is infected with HIV and is able to infect others
  5. Explains that a negative test result means the person whether is not infected or has not yet developed antibodies.
  6. Encourages the person to ask questions about both HIV and the test

After providing general background information:

  • Explores with the person why he or she wants to be tested;
  • Tries to determine if the person is at risk and if testing is appropriate by openly discussing sexual and drug use practices.

If the person decides there may be a need to be tested, then:

  • Explores benefits of being tested;
  • Explores the risks and harms of being tested and being found positive;
  • Explains the three types of HIV testing available in Ontario – anonymous, non-nominal and nominal – and the advantages and disadvantages of each;
  • Encourages questions

Posttest Counselling

If the test is negative:

  1. Encourages repeated testing if necessary – high risk activity within the last 6 months of possible exposure
  2. Safer sex information review and handouts
  3. Reinforces avoiding high-risk activities

If the test is positive:

  1. Talks about their reaction if they wish to. ie. Are you alright at this moment. Is there any service you can provide or refer them to?
  2. Asks about living conditions and finances. Directs to the agencies that will provide clients with their needs.
  3. Deals with issues important to the infected person
  4. Discusses partner notification – not necessarily right away (by self or with help)
  5. Reinforces avoiding high-risk activities
  6. Discusses follow-up for medical treatment and counselling,

 

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