Self-Assessment Questions (SAQs) for Study Session 24
Now that you have completed this study session, you can assess how well you have achieved its Learning Outcomes by answering the following questions. Write your answers in your Study Diary and discuss them with your Tutor at the next Study Support Meeting. You can check your answers with the Notes on the Self-Assessment Questions at the end of this Module.
SAQ 24.1 (tests Learning Outcome 24.1)
Is the statement below true or false. Explain your reasoning.
‘PITC is HIV testing initiated by the client.’
Answer
The statement is false because PITC is HIV testing initiated by the healthworker either in the health facility or at community level.
SAQ 24.2 (tests Learning Outcome 24.2)
Which of the following is not a benefit of HIV testing? Explain why.
A It creates early access to HIV treatment and care.
B It provides an opportunity to reduce high-risk behaviour.
C It helps in preventing transmission of HIV.
D It helps those found to be HIV-negative to practise sex without the need for protection.
Answer
Statement D is not a benefit of HIV testing because individuals found to be HIV-negative should have a plan to remain HIV-negative. They should plan to avoid sexual behaviour and practices that increase the possibility of being exposed to HIV. As part of this plan, they should practise safe sex.
SAQ 24.3 (tests Learning Outcomes 24.1 and 24.3)
Which of the following is not a mode of delivery of HIV counselling and testing that requires the client’s consent? When should this method be applied?
A PITC
B VCT
C Mandatory HIV testing.
Answer
The answer is C. Mandatory HIV testing is only used when requested by a court in rape or other sexual assault cases.
SAQ 24.4 (tests Learning Outcomes 24.4 and 24.6)
Which of the five steps of performing PITC is crucial for linking HIV patients to comprehensive HIV prevention, care, treatment and support services? Explain why.
Answer
It is the fifth step. HIV-positive people may not be linked to these services unless you do proper post-test counselling, referral and follow-up of the referral.
SAQ 24.5 (tests Learning Outcome 24.5)
Is the following statement true or false. Explain your reasoning.
‘We can report a positive HIV test just by doing a KHB rapid test.’
Answer
The statement is false because you have to perform a second test using STAT-PAK before reporting a positive test. A third test using a Uni-gold device may be required if the STAT-PAK test is non-reactive.
Summary of Study Session 24