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A positive result
| Last updated: 18.06.04 |
As with giving any other bad news, there are no easy answers. Each individual will have different immediate needs.
It can be tempting to reassure the client with information rather than acknowledging feelings of anger, fear, sadness or panic. Almost everyone who receives an HIV diagnosis will suffer acute shock, which will make it difficult for them to deal with complicated information on topics such as disease progression immediately.
It is important that you arrange to see the client again very soon, as well as fixing other follow–up sessions. Does your client also need to arrange a clinical session? Make sure that you give your client helpline telephone numbers, and information about where they can contact you. It may be helpful to give the client some written material. It will be better not to give extensive details about the possible negative effects of HIV infection before the immediate information is understood.
Check that your client knows who they can turn to immediately. If your client has brought a partner or friend with them, check if the client would like you to talk to them both.
For further information on issues for people who have been diagnosed HIV-positive see Living with HIV.