[Reduction of vertical HIV transmission: a challenge for nursing care]

With the crescent rates of HIV infection within female population in reproductive age, we may observe a correspondent increase in congenital infections. Thus, the obstetric nurse must be updated to participate and to develop programs of pre-natal care for HIV pregnant women. The purpose of this study was to review the pre-natal follow-up of this population regarding nursing care. Authors did not intend to approach all aspects of this subject, especially considering that investigations extend the great improvements already achieved since the acknowledge of the disease.