How to assess the risk of HIV exposure

The physician must screen patients for risk of exposure to the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). This requires direct and specific questioning about blood product exposure, sexual practices and use of intravenous drugs. If risk factors are uncovered, patients must then be counseled on how to minimize their risk. The screening process is potentially uncomfortable for both the physician and the patient. However, intensive educational efforts, including behavioral changes, are necessary to reduce the number of HIV-infected individuals.