Human Immunodeficiency Virus Antibody Testing: Counselling Guidelines From the Canadian Medical Association

This article describes the process for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing, including serologic tests, requirements for testing, pretest & post-test procedures & relevant Canadian Medical Association policies. The authors advise taking a sexual & drug-taking history, & recommend a trusting & nonjudgmental attitude. Coping skills & the risk of depression, anxiety or suicide should be evaluated. They also discuss what to tell a patient who has tested positive, & outline caregiver risks.(VM)