Application of Life Care Planning Principles for the Individual With HCV

John X is a 52-year-old Caucasian male who worked as a medical technician and phlebotomist at a large medical center. He acquired hepatitis C virus (HCV) as a result of a needle stick following drawing blood from a confused and disoriented patient. Twelve weeks following the needle stick, John X demonstrated anti-HCV antibodies in his blood. He began to experience fatigue, loss of appetite, weight loss and elevated liver enzymes. A diagnosis of chronic hepatitis C infection was made by treating physicians. The condition was determined to be a workers’ compensation case, with benefits due as prescribed by law, in his state of residence.