treatment.

Medical

Tina has a number of medical issues that must be addressed and further explored. Tests and

treatment for recurrent STDs, pelvic inflammatory disease, abnormal Pap smear, andHIV/AIDS

are needed. With further exploration cervical cancer may be revealed, which could, in turn, give

her an AIDS diagnosis. A pregnancy test may also be needed. The counselor needs to remember

that it is Tina's decision about the issue of pregnancy. A counselor should watch for the issues

relating to HIV/AIDS and pregnancy that can arise.

Referrals and linkages

Tina will need medical referrals. She has so many issues in this area she would benefit by having

an HIV/AIDS case manager to assist her in linking with and coordinating appointments,

medication, and so on. She may also need all the "standard" services such as housing,

transportation, and clothing.

Compliance

There could be some compliance issues with this client. This is indicated by the good possibility

that she was not taking her STD medication as directed and her statement that she doesn't

understand why she has to go to treatment. This belief should be explored further because it

could be a lack of information/education and not a compliance issue at all.

Copyright Status

Information contained within this document is within the public domain. Public domain information on the

National Library of Medicine (NLM) Web pages may be freely distributed and copied. However, it is requested

that in any subsequent use of this work, NLM be given appropriate acknowledgment.