Question

Ron Justice is a 24-year old carpenter who became HIV positive when he received contaminated blood after suffering multiple injuries in a motor vehicle accident. He was recently diagnosed with AIDS after a bout of pneumonia from which he has recovered. He is admitted to the hospital at this time for severe wasting syndrome and debilitation. He has cachexia and is weak and unsteady on his feet. He reports difficulty swallowing and complains of frequent episodes of diarrhea. Answer the following questions: 1. Name three ways in which the malnutrition of wasting syndrome shortness survival in the AIDS patients? 2. List three basic assessments important in evaluating the nutritional status of this patient? 3. What is the significance of albumin levels in a patient with HIV/AIDS? 4. What do the following Numbers mean with regards to nutritional status? Serum Albumin level 3.2-4.5 g/dl. 2.8-3.1 gde 2.1-2.7 g/dl. Less than 2.1 g/dl. 5. Explain the significance of nitrogen balance

Answer 1

Answer: People suffering from AIDs are at high risk of developing wasting syndrome. Patient with wasting syndrome has short survival rate because of:

• Extreme weight loss.
• Diarrhea ( causes severe dehydration)
• Nutritional deficiencies ( reduces the ability to perform task or work, this leads to fatigue and weakness)