Survey of NCAA institutions concerning HIV/AIDS policies and universal precautions

Attention has recently been focused on issues concerning HIV disease and competitive athletics. These issues have included HIV testing of athletes, participation by HIV-infected athletes, and the practice of "Universal Precautions" by members of the athletic health care team. A survey of all NCAA member institutions was conducted to further investigate these areas. Routine testing for the HIV virus is rare in NCAA member athletic departments. Policies of NCAA member institutions athletic departments concerning participation with HIV virus are few but nearly half restrict participation. Only 12 schools reported having HIV-positive athletes or AIDS-diagnosed athletes at their institutions. There is a need for increased awareness, knowledge, and practice of "Universal Precautions" in all athletic training rooms.