Reflexology with HIV Positive clients

[ememech]

Hi
Am considering doing some vol work at a HIV centre, wondered if anyone had experience of working with clients who are HIV + and what health and safety considerations there are?
Thanks
Jo

 

[Cliff Jumper]

When I was nursing (now retired) we were told that its practically impossible to get HIV from anyone unless you had an open wound, ie cut finger and you get contaminated fluids from a HIV patient into the wound. But its very rare to get it from any one unless you do deal with bodily fluids.
Which as a reflexologist you would'nt.

Its easier to contract Hep B from anyone than HIV . But again only with contact with bodily fluids.

 

[The black goddess Of life]

Totally agree with CaringSoul. The risks are minimul - but be aware of cuts on your hand prior to treating. Not because you need to be fearful of contracting the HIV virus, but because if the client sees them they may well become stressed. I've seen this happen and I know a couple of people who are living with the virus. Other than that, treat them exactly the same way you would any other client

 

[LAKEESHA]

Hi and thank for the answers
I know the risks of HIV passing thro skin contact is minimal, I suppose I was thinking more in terms of if the client has sores on their feet but the guess the would be contraindicated anyway sch as with athletes foot.
But also what about effects on medication? I know during my training we were told about not working on people with diabetes as it can affect their medication, same with people with epilepsy, to do with seeding up rate of medication thro system which would possibly change their dosage needs; is there this same issue with people on combination therapies? Should I still get GP consent as we were told to as students, or do I make this decision on my own basis? Does anyone have experience of working with this client group who could help me?
Thanks
Jo

 

[fineprnt]

Hi,

You can always carry some plasters with you to cover any sores, I think most clients would be sensitive to this point and cover it up themselves though - of course you would need to check they are not allergic to plasters.

If at all worried about any dangers don't treat - like any other client. As said before HIV is not one of the most contagious viruses around. Patients who are positive could get a lot of benefit from the caring touch of a reflexologist.

Luv Binah
x

 

[Virgin_phoenix]

basically it's all been said above.
I would recommend using latex gloves though, as a "better safe than sorry" principal; it'll make both yourself and the patient that much more relaxed and comfortable too.
Besides, whilst the risks ARE minimal, why take them when they're easily avoided at (presumably) no detriment to the treatment.

Edit to say: you'd be working at an HIV centre; ask the other staff there what they recommend; they'll have greater specific knowledge than just about anyone on here.