How to Work With People With HIV

If you have never experienced working with an HIV-positive coworker you may have questions and concerns. It is important to be supportive of an HIV-positive coworker because he may be coping with many serious considerations and emotional issues. Understanding basic information about HIV can help you create a healthy and supportive work environment for your coworker.

Instructions

Being Sensitive to an HIV-Positive Coworker

• 1

  Help prevent the spread of viruses and bacteria. Individuals who are HIV positive can be more susceptible to infectious illnesses, so it is essential that you take steps to reduce the spread of infection. Maintain a sanitary environment. Wipe down surfaces with sanitizing cleaning products. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap before touching an HIV-positive person, and try to avoid him if you are sick. Be extra cautious when preparing foods prone to bacteria in the workplace, such as raw chicken.

• 2

  Be sensitive to your coworker's symptoms. According to the Mayo Clinic, depending on the level of progression, symptoms in an HIV-positive person can include fatigue, fever, vision problems and chronic headaches. Understand that your coworker may not feel good. Be patient with the additional sick days your coworker may require.

• 3

  Be aware of your coworker's emotional needs. Your coworker may feel depressed and hopeless. Make sure to be sensitive to the moods and frustrations caused by the illness. Understand that you cannot get HIV from hugging or shaking hands. Ignorance of the way HIV is transmitted is still a problem for sufferers. Your understanding can set a good example and help your coworker feel supported.

• 4

  Maintain your fellow employee's confidentiality. Everyone has the right to medical privacy, and someone who is HIV positive may be especially concerned because of misconceptions surrounding HIV. Never assume that a friend, manager or fellow employee already knows your coworker's diagnosis. Take care not to talk about her HIV status without express permission. Ask your coworker about people who already know their HIV status if you are in doubt.