Analyzing Empathic-Supportive Care Given to Children Living With HIV in Nigeria

Vulnerable children living with HIV often face challenges that require supportive care. Our study explored an analysis of empathic-supportive care given to such children. A qualitative research method was adopted with focus group discussions and individual interviews with children, caregivers, nurses, and stakeholders. The findings highlighted that giving a listening ear to the children encouraged them to share their feelings, thereby cushioning the effect of reduced self-worth, withdrawal, and discrimination, and enhancing their general well-being. However, a few of the participants discussed nonacceptance, inadequate food support, and rejection as hampering care. We concluded that giving empathic-compassionate care to children infected with HIV would help them cooperate with the care and cope with the challenges of HIV. It is therefore recommended that caregivers, nurses, and significant others provide holistic care with empathy in care settings.