Care of persons with HIV infection--an ethnonursing approach

The purpose of the present study is to gain an understanding of 'the content' and 'the process' of care of persons with HIV infection. A qualitative approach comparable to the ethnonursing method was adopted. Data were collected through interviews, participant observations and documentary material from 21 key informants (policy makers, planners, administrators), 35 staff members, and 51 persons with HIV infection in six selected home care programmes in Africa. A data collection guide provided direction for the study, but emphasis was on obtaining local viewpoints. Data were analyzed from within a caring paradigm. Characteristics of the care provided on home visits to 51 patients were identified, categories formulated and a model of care developed.