Margaret Brady

Dispelling common myths about HIV infection

Myths and misconceptions about human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) are prevalent in both the lay and health care populations. It is imperative that health professionals have accurate knowledge about HIV infection and feel comfortable as they educate parents and children about this major health problem confronting society. Health care providers are always looking for innovative ways to approach the subject of patient teaching. Thus, this quiz was developed as a teaching tool to educate parents and older children about HIV infection. You can use the following true/false quiz or parts of it in any type of practice setting to teach about HIV infection and to dispel the myths and misconceptions that surround this illness. After your clients have completed the quiz, go over their responses with them using the explanation or rationale provided in the key for each answer.