The effect of an informal caregiver's programme on the care of patients infected with HIV/AIDS

[摘要] ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Background & rationale: South Africa is faced with the major challenge of HIV/AIDS. Every South African has a vital role to play in managing this public health problem. One of the best ways of managing it is by informing and educating the communities about HIV/AIDS, as the communities lack knowledge about it. Problem statement: Due to the increase in the number of patients infected with HIV/AIDS, an informal caregiver's programme was introduced to ensure that patients are better cared for at home, in a familiar environment and by their family members. Purpose and objectives: The purpose of the study was to evaluate the effect of an informal caregiver's programme on the care of patients with HIV/AIDS. The objectives included evaluating the effect of care, physically, socially, spiritually, emotionally, information and educational support given. Methodology: A phenomenological research design was applied to evaluate the effects of an informal caregiver's programme implemented for the care of patients infected with HIV/AIDS at Mfuleni Township in the Cape Metropolitan area. Population and sampling: The population of this study were HIV/AIDS infected patients who were participating in the informal caregiver's programme. Ten of these patients, who gave consent, participated in the study. Reliability, validity & pilot study: The trustworthiness of this study was assured with the use of Lincoln and Guba criteria of credibility, transferability, dependability and conformability. A pre-test study was also completed. Ethical considerations: Ethical approval was obtained from the Stellenbosch University and the required consent from the individual participants.Data collection, analysis and results: Data was collected through an interview using an interview schedule based on the objectives. Data was analysed and the findings show that the care given to patients infected by HIV/AIDS at home through an informal caregiver's programme has a positive outcome. Recommendations and conclusion: On the spot training of participants and their family members is recommended. The community health workers form a very strong support base for the participants.

[发布机构] Stellenbosch University