What is an early manifestation of HIV infection that a nurse should assess in a client?

In the context of early manifestations of HIV infection, fatigue is a common symptom that individuals may experience shortly after being infected with the virus. This fatigue is often due to the body’s immune response as it begins to fight the virus, leading to an increase in energy expenditure and overall exhaustion. It is frequently reported during the acute phase of HIV infection, which occurs within two to four weeks after exposure, where individuals may also experience other flu-like symptoms.

While fever, weight loss, and swollen lymph nodes can also occur in the early stages or later on in the progression of HIV, fatigue is notable as it can be one of the first signs that individuals report. In the early phase, some might not yet show other symptoms, making fatigue a key indicator that a clinician should be aware of when assessing potential HIV infection.