What should the nurse advise an HIV-positive mother regarding breastfeeding?

In the scenario of an HIV-positive mother considering breastfeeding, it is critical to recognize that breastfeeding can pose a risk of transmitting the HIV virus to the infant. The virus is found in breast milk, and so there exists a potential for the baby to become infected through this route. This emphasizes the importance of understanding that while breastfeeding has numerous benefits, the risk of HIV transmission is a significant concern for HIV-positive mothers.

Current guidelines recommend that HIV-positive mothers are typically advised against breastfeeding unless they are on effective antiretroviral therapy (ART) and have an undetectable viral load. Even so, the primary concern remains the risk of transmission, making it clear that breastfeeding is not a universally safe option for all mothers in this situation. Therefore, the emphasis on the potential for breastfeeding to serve as a mode of transmission is crucial for advising mothers on the best feeding practices for the health of their infants.