Doing well with AIDS: three case illustrations

This report focuses on the abilities of three people diagnosed with acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) to maximize their state of well-being. The purpose of this ongoing investigation is to identify factors that may help enhance AIDS patients' states of well-being, ultimately achieving the provision of holistic and life-giving nursing care. A naturalistic approach was used to generate an understanding of the concept, "doing well." Five themes regarding "doing well" with AIDS emerged from the interview data. These themes include: autonomy/mastery over the disease; existential/spiritual journey toward understanding; self-acceptance; staying active and involved; and positive thinking. Nursing implications of these themes are discussed.