HIV Knowledge Improvement Among Nurses in India: Using a Train-the-Trainer Program

It is now estimated that India has approximately 2.5 million persons infected with HIV (Joint United National Programme on HIV/AIDS [UNAIDS], 2007). While this new estimate of HIV prevalence is lower than previously reported, in a country already burdened by mycobacterium tuberculosis (TB) and a health system that has been unable to respond with consistency to serious health problems, the impact of an HIV epidemic renders the prospect of catastrophic health implications a reality. HIV treatment and care is expanding rapidly, and health care provider education and training is one of many factors critical to the rapid increase in high-quality care. Even so, few areas have a comprehensive training plan, including a clear assessment of ongoing training needs, or adequate funds budgeted for training (McCarthy, O’Brien, & Rodriguez, 2006). Intensive interactive HIV professional training workshops can increase knowledge, attitudes, and willingness of health care professionals to provide care to persons infected with HIV. Nurses, in particular, can make a critical difference by providing quality physical care and emotional support for persons living with HIV (PLWH) as well as for their families. Yet, little information is available about the knowledge of HIV held by nurses and, subsequently, how this may influence their nursing care of PLWH.