What is the anticipated outcome of using NRTIs and PIs for HIV positive clients?

The use of NRTIs (Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors) and PIs (Protease Inhibitors) in HIV-positive clients is primarily aimed at delaying the progression of the disease and the onset of AIDS. These classes of antiretroviral drugs work by targeting different aspects of the HIV life cycle. NRTIs interfere with the reverse transcription process, while PIs inhibit the protease enzyme needed for viral replication.

By effectively suppressing viral replication, these medications can significantly reduce the viral load in the body, which in turn helps to preserve the immune system's function and maintain CD4 cell counts. This delay in progression means that patients can live longer, healthier lives without developing AIDS-related complications. Thus, the primary goal of combining NRTIs and PIs is to manage the infection effectively, leading to a prolonged period before the disease progresses to AIDS.

In this context, although full recovery from HIV, elimination of opportunistic infections, or permanently reducing the number of HIV viruses are desirable outcomes, they are not achievable with current treatments. Antiretroviral therapy does not cure HIV but instead maintains a manageable condition for the patient by delaying the onset of AIDS.