Knowledge and Attitudes of Nurses toward AIDS: A Case Study of General Hospital Ogoja, Cross River State, Nigeria

Abstract

One hundred nurses were randomly selected from General Hospital Ogoja to assess the level of knowledge of nurses about AIDS with regard to causes, signs and symptoms, mode of transmission, attitudes of nurses toward AIDS patients and safety practices as they affect the practice of caring for AIDS patients. A questionnaire made up of two parts was used. Part A sought demographic information while Part B sought information on knowledge and attitudes of nurses toward AIDS patients. Six hypotheses were formulated to guide the study. Data were analyzed by the use of t-test and chi-square statistics. The results revealed a “passing” level of knowledge for nurses with regard to AIDS matters. On the other hand, the result revealed negative attitudes among nurses toward the care of AIDS. Recommendations were made for nurses to be involved in seminars and workshops regarding the AIDS issue both within and outside the country.