Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) complicated with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection: a case report of nursing experience

In this paper, we report a case of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) complicated with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. The 50-year-old male patient had unexplained "intermittent fever with sore throat" on February 9th, 2020. Chest computed tomography (CT) showed bilateral multiple patchy opacities and ground-glass opacities. A COVID-19 RNA test was positive. After admission, additional laboratory tests revealed the following: white blood cell (WBC) count, 4.7×109/L; neutrophil percentage, 85.1%; lymphocyte percentage, 12.3%; lymphocyte count, 0.59×109/L; hypersensitivity C-reactive protein, 5.52 mg/L; four coagulation factors, +; D-dimer, 1.32 mg/L; and procalcitonin, normal. He was HIV (+). The patient was diagnosed with COVID-19 complicated with HIV infection. The healthcare team administered symptomatic care, including nasal oxygen, oseltamivir, Lianhua Qingwen capsule, moxifloxacin, ribavirin, and thymus faxin, as well as nutritional support, mental care, diet and life management, and close monitoring. Moreover, the team implemented strict disinfection and quarantine and occupational protection. The patient's temperature returned to normal and sore throat significantly improved by day 10, and COVID-19 RNA tests were negative on February 19th, February 21st, and February 22nd. Reexamination by chest CT on February 22nd showed significant absorption of inflammation. After rounds by the chief physician and consultation with specialists, the patient was released from quarantine and discharged on February 23rd per the Diagnosis and Treatment Protocol for Novel Coronavirus Pneumonia (Trial Version 6). Patients with COVID-19 and HIV infection face both physical and mental challenges. More attention should be paid to nursing as we understand more about COVID-19. We hope to share our nursing experience through this case.