HIV COURSE FOR MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS

Course overview

Massage therapists can play an important role in helping persons with HIV reduce some of their discomforts and strengthen their immune systems. Several state massage licensing boards emphasize this role by requiring continuing education in HIV. This course is designed to help massage therapists understand the prevalence and transmission of HIV and support the people who live with it. This course meets the HIV requirement for Maryland and several other states. It does not teach hands-on skills. Learning Outcomes At the conclusion of this course, you will be able to: •List the ways HIV is transmitted; HIV’s four stages and its symptoms. •Describe massage therapy actions that are indicated and/or contraindicated for people who have HIV infection. •Identify at least 3 benefits of massage therapy for persons who have HIV infection. •Achieve at least 70% correct on the open-book test. Course Outline What Is HIV Infection? •Prevalence and History •HIV Stages and Symptoms What Is AIDS? •Associated Conditions oOpportunistic Infections oOther Associated Conditions How Is HIV Infection Diagnosed and Treated? Transmission of HIV and Opportunistic Infections •Precautions for Preventing Infection Massage for People Who Have HIV •Benefits •Massage Modification oContraindications oSpecial Considerations Emotional Impact to the Practitioner HIV and Ethics Research Findings References Open-book Test and Course Evaluation