Nursing students attitudes toward AIDS: implications for education

Increasingly, nursing students will be caring for patients with Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS), as the disease reaches epidemic proportions. This study examined the attitudes of 87 senior baccalaureate nursing students toward caring for these patients. A 37-item researcher developed Likert scale instrument was administered and addressed five themes: (1) direct care of the AIDS patient, (2) students' rights, (3) educational preparation, (4) patients' rights and (5) general beliefs about AIDS. Overall responses were generally positive although 70% of subjects expressed a discomfort in working with patients with AIDS. A large number felt they should have the right to refuse to care for AIDS patients although most indicated they would not refuse such an assignment. Most were very supportive of patients' rights. Feelings of inadequate preparation to deal with these patient situations were indicated. Significantly more positive responses occurred in all areas among students who had actually cared for patients with AIDS. Findings have implications for development of teaching strategies and curricular approaches to address this health care issue. Data also provide a basis for educational and organisational policy formation.