PhyllisThompsonDNP(She/Her)

Summary

• I am a Family Nurse Practitioner who specializes in HIV. My focus is on the prevention, management, and treatment of HIV/AIDS. They play a critical role in both clinical and educational aspects of HIV care, working closely with patients to ensure comprehensive management of their health.
  I Conduct comprehensive patient assessments, including medical history, risk factors, and potential exposure to HIV.
  - Order and interpret laboratory tests such as HIV screening, kidney function tests, and STI screenings.
  - Prescribe medications, including antiretrovirals for PrEP and PEP, and monitor for side effects or drug interactions.
  - Provide vaccinations and other preventive care measures as needed.
  - Educate patients about HIV transmission, prevention strategies, and the importance of adherence to PrEP and PEP regimens.
  - Discuss lifestyle modifications and safer sex practices to reduce the risk of HIV infection.
  - Offer counseling and support regarding HIV stigma and mental health issues.
  - Work with multidisciplinary teams including physicians, social workers, and pharmacists to provide holistic care.
  - Coordinate care with other specialists as needed for comorbid conditions.
  - Identify individuals at high risk for HIV, such as those with an HIV-positive partner or those with multiple sexual partners.
  - Evaluate the patient’s renal function and overall health to ensure they are suitable candidates for PrEP.
  Initiate PrEP with medications like Truvada or Descovy, advising on daily adherence.
  Schedule regular follow-ups every 3 months to monitor adherence, test for HIV, and check renal function.
  Provide education on the effectiveness and limitations of PrEP.
  Address any barriers to adherence, such as cost, side effects, or stigma.
  Evaluate the patient’s exposure risk (e.g., occupational exposure, sexual assault) to determine the need for PEP.
  Initiate PEP as soon as possible, ideally within 72 hours of exposure.