PAGE 19
HIV NUTRITION UPDATE
VOLUME 6, ISSUE 4

(Continued from page 11)

Amelia Court Clinic, Parkland Health & Hospital System
By Denise Li, BS

What has been your most difficult issue? As a former inpatient dietitian, the most difficult issue Ms. McCavit experienced occurred in the beginning of her clinic role. It was a challenge to understand the differences between inpatient and outpatient roles, including a focus on education and re-addressing issues previously discussed. Also, working with a healthy outpatient population brought specific questions on herbs, supplements, exercise and BIA that had not previously occurred in the inpatient setting.

Who is your best ally? According to Ms. McCavit, “A team effort is evident in the clinic”.
 
What differences exist between current clientele and that of the HIV+ person in the early 1980s?   “As Dallas County’s only public hospital, Parkland ensures that health care is available to all area residents. Intravenous drug use is common, as is homelessness in our clinic. An increase in Hispanic and African American women has been noted. Patients are living longer, however they are experiencing long-term side effects from medication and the effects of the virus on the body not witnessed in the 1980’s.”


Are there any differences in clinical care within your current population group? Ms. McCavit finds considerable differences between healthy patients with undetectable viral load and patients with multiple opportunistic infections, electrolyte abnormalities and significant metabolic abnormalities. Healthy patients have the opportunity to focus on healthy fats, lean protein sources and resistance exercise. Patients with multiple absorption difficulties, anorexia and nausea and vomiting must focus on symptom management and medication compliance. 
Is someone involved in program operation actively involved with the local HIV/AIDS Health Services Planning Council?  Clinic director, Sylvia Moreno, RN, is involved with the local HIV/AIDS Health Services Planning Council.

How do you participate in HIV/AIDS networking groups? “I am a ANAC (Association of Nurses in AIDS Care) member and attend meetings regularly. I also am a member of the HIV/AIDS Dietetic Practice Group (DPG) of the American Dietetic Association and a volunteer at a local AIDS Service Organization’s (ASO) clinic. I have helped teach Share Our Strength classes through the local food bank at another ASO.” 

What have you found to be most useful in helping to keep up with the current research on nutrition and HIV? Ms. McCavit finds the HIV DPG helpful, especially the list serve. In addition, continuing education seminars and lectures have developed an understanding for current trends in treatment. The clinic hosts many speakers presenting topics on investigational or emerging medications for HIV/AIDS.
 
 

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1/28/2002