A randomized trial of group interventions for hospital staff caring for persons with AIDS

The purpose of this study was to develop an educational package for health care providers. Findings from a survey conducted by investigators were used to direct intervention content. All subjects received a 1 hour educational package. Since this type of intervention was not expected to be sufficient to modify attitudes and concerns, 75% of the subjects received an additional 1 hour group discussion intervention (n = 118). In a subgroup of those receiving group interventions, the discussion was preceded by the presence of a person with AIDS (PWA) (in person or on video) discussing his personal experience with the illness and health care workers. It was demonstrated that in order to modify change attitudes, concerns, and affective response, groups were necessary. Furthermore, fear of risk of contagion and homophobia required the presence of a PWA (in person or on video) in order for change to occur.