HIV AIDS A GROWING PANDEMIC KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDES AND INFECTION CONTROL PRACTICES OF NURSES ABOUT HIV/AIDS IN A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL OF PESHAWAR

Abstract

Objective: To estimate the knowledge, attitudes and infection control practices of nurses about HIV/AIDS. Study Design: Cross Sectional Study Setting: Hayatabad Medical Complex, Peshawar, Pakistan Period: 6 months, from October, 2015 and March, 2016 Material and Methods: Nurses were interviewed using a semi-structured questionnaire. The sample was composed of 92 female nurses. Sample was selected randomly from the random numbers list using a computer sheet. Data collected were analyzed using SPSS version 16 for windows. Results: The subjects had fair level of knowledge regarding disease transmission, prevention and treatment, generally positive attitudes but deficient knowledge and poor practices about standard precautions and use of personal protective equipment (PPE). Most of the respondents reported course textbooks followed by television and radio as the source of knowledge about HIV/AIDS. Conclusions: The study showed lack in knowledge which can be addressed by revising the basic nursing curriculum to provide a sound and practical knowledge base to the nurses who are the first line and primary care providers. Furthermore the institutions/employers should feel their responsibility to provide PPE in adequate quantities to guarantee the safety of its employees.