Testing
Importance/benefits of HIV antibody testing
- end anxiety of not knowing
- to use information learned to take steps to live healthier
- to gain knowledge of how to access medical care and treatment if necessary
Tests
ELISA Test - a screening test for HIV antibodies
WESTERN BLOT Test - if a test is positive on the ELISA screen, they are re-tested to confirm it is really positive.
Types of Testing
Nominal Testing - Results are linked to the person being tested by both the patient's name and the physician's name.
Non-nominal testing - Results can be linked to the person being tested by a code known only to the patient and the physician.
Anonymous Testing - Results can be linked to the person being tested by a code known only to the patient. Neither the physician ordering the test nor anyone else knows the identity of the person being tested.
Pretest Counselling
Provides basic information about HIV- Discusses symptoms associated with HIV and that HIV does not mean a person has AIDS
- Explains that the test identifies antibodies to HIV - not the virus itself
- Explains the length of time it will take to get the test results
- Explains that a positive test result means the person is infected with HIV and is able to infect others
- Explains that a negative test result means the person whether is not infected or has not yet developed antibodies.
- Encourages the person to ask questions about both HIV and the test
After providing general background information:
- Explores with the person why he or she wants to be tested;
- Tries to determine if the person is at risk and if testing is appropriate by openly discussing sexual and drug use practices.
If the person decides there may be a need to be tested, then:
- Explores benefits of being tested;
- Explores the risks and harms of being tested and being found positive;
- Explains the three types of HIV testing available in Ontario - anonymous, non-nominal and nominal - and the advantages and disadvantages of each;
- Encourages questions
Posttest Counselling
If the test is negative:
- Encourages repeated testing if necessary - high risk activity within the last 6 months of possible exposure
- Safer sex information review and handouts
- Reinforces avoiding high-risk activities
If the test is positive:
- Talks about their reaction if they wish to. ie. Are you alright at this moment. Is there any service you can provide or refer them to?
- Asks about living conditions and finances. Directs to the agencies that will provide clients with their needs.
- Deals with issues important to the infected person
- Discusses partner notification - not necessarily right away (by self or with help)
- Reinforces avoiding high-risk activities
- Discusses follow-up for medical treatment and counselling, if requested
Where to get tested:
To find anonymous HIV testing sites in Ontario contact:
Say Yes to knowing
Call 1-800-668-2437
50 anonymous testing sites
20-minute test results
www.sayyestoknowing.ca
Results
Negative or non-reactive
No infection of HIV; risks within the past 6 months encourage retesting necessary 6 months after last possible exposure
Positive or Reactive
Infectedwith HIV; does not tell you if you have AIDS; can infect others with thevirus
