Nurses' patterns of knowing about HIV disclosure to children

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Pediatric Nursing
• HIV/AIDS Care

Background:

• Nurses play a crucial role in preparing families for disclosure of HIV seropositivity to children.
• Sociocultural factors and historical media portrayals have influenced nurses' understanding and approach to HIV disclosure.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and analyze nurses' patterns of knowing and experiences in preparing families for HIV disclosure to children.
• To explore the evolution of nurses' knowledge and practice in this sensitive area.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study involving thirteen pediatric nurses from Rio de Janeiro.
• Utilized the sensitive creative method for data collection.
• Employed Orlandi's discourse analysis and Carper's patterns of knowing for data analysis.

Main Results:

• Nurses' personal knowledge patterns were shaped by early negative media, leading to stigma and prejudice.
• Empirical, esthetic, and ethical patterns developed through professional practice from the 1990s to 2010s.
• Nurses reported a mix of confidence and insecurity regarding their competence in preparing families for disclosure.

Conclusions:

• Nurses possess valuable knowledge for intervention in HIV disclosure.
• Significant challenges remain in the practical application and appropriation of this knowledge.
• Further support and training are needed to enhance nurses' confidence and effectiveness.