The global epidemic of human immunodeficiency virus infection: past reflections, future directions

The impact of the global epidemic of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection in developed countries has been far reaching, but its impact in developing countries is much more devastating. The common underlying theme that helps explain HIV and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) is inequality. The resources available to nurses in all these countries vary markedly. Although there are many instances of nurses responding in an altruistic manner, the evidence indicates that many nurses are reluctant to provide care for individuals with HIV infection. HIV and AIDS have enabled an examination of broader, fundamental questions about the nature of nursing in health care and in society.