How to care a patient who has AIDs?

I take care a female client who has AIDs in her home. She has 2 kids at home. How would I manage to meet the psychosocial needs for the client, safety precautions for the client, safety precautions for me, and the physical care needs of the client? Thank you!

The most important concern for you would be your own health and safety. I would ALWAYS use gloves (latex) while handling any bodily fluids, any linens, while washing cooking utensils, etc. If you do housework, use a little bleach in the water with soap while washing dishes--unless they have a dishwasher, because that will sterilize the plates and things.

Her psychosocial needs must be met without any kind of judgement--which you probably do not have or you wouldn't be caring for her. Let her talk to you about her fears, her happy memories and accomplishments in life. Listening is the best thing you can do. Make her aware that there are many new strides in treatment available today, and adhering to medication is very important.

I do not know how debilitated she is at this point, but her own safety is in check when she can communicate effectively to you what her needs are. If she is unsteady during ambulation, then make sure you assist her securely when she moves around the house. Taking up any rugs will prevent falls. If she has a hospital bed, keep the bed rails up when you are not right there, and at nighttime to prevent any falls. And always maintain the bed in the lowest position, unless you are doing a bed bath or something of that sort.

The 2 children are obviously in a very unfortunate situation. Encourage their interaction with their mom (but keep their health safety an issue too). Let them help--if they are old enough--with their mom's food preparation, and things that will allow them to feel as if they are contributing.

You are a very generous and caring person to take care of this lady. I pray for her health, and you and those 2 children's well-being.

By following the 6 principles of care, safety, communication, privacy, dignity, independence and infection control. It spreads through contact with blood and other bodily fluids. Wear gloves when dealing with that stuff, wash your hands and make sure your careful if you have a cold, because her immune system can't fight things off as one who isn't infected.