In this study session, you have learned that:
- There are key questions to ask and signs to look for in the assessment of a child for HIV infection.
- Children with HIV infection are more likely to suffer from common childhood diseases.
- There are five HIV classifications for children:
- Confirmed symptomatic HIV infection
- Confirmed HIV infection
- Suspected symptomatic HIV infection
- Possible HIV infection or HIV exposed
- HIV infection unlikely.
- Initial treatment in children with HIV infection includes cotrimoxazole prophylaxis and treatment for oral thrush.
- It is important to keep confidentiality and maintain trust of the mother when counselling her about HIV testing.