["... but it is for many also a large step: from the brink of death to the celebration of life...". Routine care with new drug treatment possibilities for HIV positive and AIDS patients from the viewpoint of patients].

: New combination therapy provides a stabilization of health and a longer life expectancy for people living with HIV/AIDS who are able to deal with their drugs and the strict daily medical regime inflicted. This of course produces high expectations. Due to the success of the combination therapy, the psychosocial problems associated with it have been pushed to the background. How do people living with HIV/AIDS evaluate the changes that occurred since the introduction of the new combination therapy? Which changes affect their daily routine most? Is there a need for change in nursing care? In order to address these questions, this study attempts to grasp and analyse the changes and coping strategies of people that are treated with combination therapy at source. The results are discussed taking a perspective of positive change and support. The main aim of this study was to contribute to a better understanding of people living with HIV/AIDS that are treated with combination therapy and to improve their professional support.