Survey of baccalaureate nursing schools' guidelines/policies on AIDS

A descriptive survey of 242 National League for Nursing (NLN)-accredited schools was conducted to identify guidelines and methods used to deal with both student assignment to AIDS clients and students who are HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) antibody positive or diagnosed as having AIDS. Results indicated that 96% of the nursing schools have no guidelines for dealing with infected students, 76% have no guidelines for dealing with student assignments to AIDS clients; and 49% have no plans to develop guidelines. Thirteen percent felt HIV antibody testing should be required of all nursing students. While 66% responded that another assignment would be made if a student refused to care for an AIDS client, 45% added other comments, primarily that they would employ student conferences and further AIDS education as well. In dealing with HIV antibody positive students who are not ill, 84% felt students should remain in theory classes and 64% said they should remain in clinical. When asked about students diagnosed as having AIDS, 79% would allow theory attendance, and 31% would allow clinical attendance. Regarding who should be notified, 67% indicated that student health center, 41% said only nursing faculty in direct contact with the student, and 61% said the nursing school administration. Results demonstrated few schools of nursing have existing guidelines, many have no plans to develop them, and uncertainty abounds in the resolution of these issues.