Which question is least effective in assessing a client requesting an AIDS test?

The least effective question for assessing a client requesting an AIDS test is one that focuses on when the client became sexually active. While knowing the age of sexual debut can offer some background information, it does not directly evaluate current risk factors for HIV transmission. Risk assessment for AIDS primarily centers around behaviors and practices that increase exposure, such as drug use, number of sexual partners, and methods of protection during sexual activity.

Questions about drug use and number of sexual partners directly relate to behaviors that are associated with a higher risk of HIV infection. Likewise, inquiries into methods of birth control can indicate whether safe practices are being employed to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections, including HIV.

In contrast, understanding the age of first sexual activity provides limited insight into the client’s current sexual behavior or risk exposure. It does not assess ongoing practices or present risk factors, making it the least effective of the options for the purpose of determining the need for an AIDS test.