Patient education for behavior change: help from the Transtheoretical and Harm Reduction models

Promoting healthy behaviors at all levels of prevention is an important component of nursing care in the HIV epidemic. This paper explores two models that can be used to support behavior change efforts: the Transtheoretical Model, which describes stages in the change process, and the Harm Reduction Model, which offers an incremental approach to helping clients move toward safer and healthier habits. A review of the literature shows that these holistic and caring models can be combined effectively to assist clients who are dealing with HIV-related issues. The resulting theory-based approach can help nurses maintain consistency and direction in educational interventions for behavior change.