Discharge Instructions for HIV Infection and AIDS

You have been diagnosed with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). This is the virus that causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), a life-threatening disease. HIV attacks the body's immune system, making it tougher to fight off infection. Normally, most infections are not severe or fatal. However, these infections can cause death in persons with HIV infection or AIDS because the body cannot fight off the infections. Here's what you can do to help stay healthier and prevent the spread of HIV.

Medical Care

• Take your  medication exactly as directed.

  • Don’t take any other medications, including over-the-counter preparations or supplements, unless your doctor says it’s okay.

  • Tell your doctor about any side effects you have.

• See your doctor regularly. You will need to be followed closely for the rest of your life.

• Tell all your healthcare providers that you are HIV-positive. This includes dentists and dental hygienists.

• Talk to your doctor before being vaccinated against illness. There are some vaccines you should avoid.

Help Prevent the Spread of HIV

• Practice safe sex. Use condoms. Do not risk spreading your illness to other noninfected persons.

• Ask any sexual partners to be tested for HIV.

• Never share needles for drug use.

• Do not get tattoos or have any parts of your body pierced.

• Do not donate blood, plasma, semen, or body parts.

• If you are a woman, talk to your doctor before becoming pregnant.

• Check with your doctor before kissing or having close intimate contact.

• Wear a mask when you walk through the hospital or when you are near construction areas, windy places, or any area with dust or fumes.

Reduce Your Risk of Infection

• Take care of your skin.

  • Wash your hands frequently, especially after using the bathroom.

  • Wash your hands before taking care of any wounds or injuries.

  • Use hypoallergenic sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or greater.

  • Avoid direct sun exposure on your skin.

  • Use an electric razor for shaving.

• Ask your doctor before using cosmetics, contact lenses, tampons, or douches.

• Avoid contact with animals.

  • If you do come in contact with an animal, wash your hands immediately afterward.

  • Avoid contact with pet urine or feces.

  • Don’t clean litter boxes, cages, or aquariums.

• Keep your home clean.

  • Clean floors, carpets, furniture, and countertops regularly.

  • Be sure your bathroom is clean.

  • Wash your hands after handling trash.

• Don’t smoke or use tobacco products.

• Don’t use portable humidifiers or vaporizers.

• Avoid contact with anyone who has a cold, the flu, or other contagious condition (e.g., measles, chicken pox, herpes, viruses, pinkeye, coughs, sore throats).

  • Limit visits with young children.

  • Avoid public places such as shopping malls, especially during crowded holidays and big sales events.

Follow-Up

Make a follow-up appointment as directed by our staff.