Acquired immune deficiency syndrome: a comparison of psychiatric and general nursing staff beliefs

Abstract

AbstractObjective: To assess the preparedness of psychiatric nurses to care for patients with Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS). Method: Voluntary anonymous questionnaires were sent to psychiatric and general nurses in a district general teaching hospital. The behaviour, knowledge and attitudes towards AIDS of both groups were then compared with those of three experts specialising in the care of AIDS patients. Results: No inter group differences were found but a majority of nurses differed from the experts on two statements. Contrary to expert opinion nurses believed AIDS could be spread by needle stick injury and if given a choice they stated they would not volunteer to work on an AIDS ward. On controversial issues such as testing and where best to treat psychiatrically disturbed AIDS patients there was wide variation. Conclusion: While this study shows an improvement in health professionals knowledge, behaviour and attitudes towards AIDS, there remain underlying anxieties that need to be addressed with continuing education and training.