An Exploratory Study of a Nurse-Led HIV Postexposure Prophylaxis Program.

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• HIV Prevention
• Social Science

Background:

• Postexposure prophylaxis (PEP) is crucial for HIV prevention after exposure.
• Current PEP services are often limited to emergency rooms, posing access barriers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate a nurse-led, community-based postexposure prophylaxis (PEP) program in Ottawa.
• To understand participants' experiences and perceptions of PEP access and utilization.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative interviews were conducted with 12 men who initiated PEP after condomless anal sex.
• Thematic analysis was used to analyze interview transcripts.

Main Results:

• Participants perceived PEP as stigmatized, linking it to negatively perceived behaviors.
• Stigma led to reluctance in discussing PEP needs with healthcare professionals.
• PEP use involved balancing HIV acquisition risk against disclosure risks.

Conclusions:

• Decentralizing PEP services to community clinics, involving nurses, and consolidating services can improve access.
• Streamlining data collection and standardizing tools can reduce barriers to PEP access.
• These changes may enhance patient access to PEP and maximize its HIV prevention effectiveness.