Process Flowchart

HIV Counseling Process with Rapid Testing
Begin session by establishing rapport and exploring any
immediate concerns of the patient
Conduct informed consent process, including:
• Review testing options
• Assess readiness for rapid test results
Review: Rapid Testing for HIV/AIDS:
Key Message
Conduct Rapid Test
While test is running (approx. 20 min.) and depending on patient need and agency policy:
• Begin risk assessment
• Conduct behavioral counseling and develop client centered harm reduction plan
• Client reviews pertinent HIV-related print materials or video
Deliver Post Test Results
Review applicable sections of: Tailoring HIV Counseling for Rapid HIV Testing Handout

If HIV Negative review:
• Window period and assess
risk in last 90 days
• Harm Reduction plan

If risk within last 90 days
schedule retest appointment

If HIV reactive:
• Conduct in-depth client risk assessment
Review: In-depth client risk assessment questions handout

Interpret/explain the meaning of the test results
Review: Counseling Messages for Patients with Preliminary
Positive Test Results: The Meaning of the Positive Test Result
and the Need for Further Testing handout

Emphasize prevention: Discuss strategies for decreasing
transmission to others and protecting self from other infections
If appropriate, begin discussing PN options and begin DV
screening
Emphasize importance of confirmatory testing and return visit.
Collect follow up contact information.
Schedule follow up visit to receive confirmatory test results