HIV and AIDS: An overview of the current issues, treatment and prevention

Elizabeth Anne Crock1

  • 1Homeless Person's Programme, Bolton Clarke, West Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.

Nursing Standard (Royal College of Nursing (Great Britain) : 1987)
|December 7, 2017
PubMed

Insights

Ending the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) epidemic is achievable. This article reviews current HIV/AIDS treatment, care, prevention strategies, and the vital role of nurses in managing this global health challenge.

Area of Science:

  • Public Health
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Epidemiology

Background:

  • The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) epidemic remains a significant global health challenge.
  • World AIDS Day 2017's theme, 'let's end it,' signifies a potential end to the HIV epidemic.
  • Nearly 40 years since its emergence, HIV/AIDS necessitates ongoing comprehensive management strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide an overview of current HIV/AIDS treatment, care, and support approaches.
  • To discuss persistent challenges in managing HIV and AIDS.
  • To highlight HIV prevention strategies and the role of nursing in HIV care.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of current HIV/AIDS management.
  • Analysis of HIV prevention strategies.
  • Examination of the nursing role in HIV care.
  • Case study of the Australian partnership approach to HIV.

Main Results:

  • Current approaches to HIV/AIDS treatment, care, and support are detailed.
  • Key challenges in combating HIV and AIDS are identified.
  • Effective HIV prevention strategies and the integral role of nurses are discussed.

Conclusions:

  • An end to the HIV epidemic is a tangible goal.
  • A comprehensive, multi-faceted approach involving treatment, care, prevention, and nursing support is crucial.
  • International collaboration, exemplified by the Australian model, is vital for global HIV/AIDS response.

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