Counseling patients with HIV infection

With the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) still spreading rapidly throughout the nation, all health care professionals must be skilled not only in the technical aspects of management, but also in patient counseling. Patients are concerned about deteriorating health and the prospect of death, but also about treatment options and financial problems related to the disease. Clinicians who provide counseling must be familiar with these concerns as they explain the medical options to patients and help patients work through the stages of adjustment.