Knowledge and Attitudes of Healthcare Providers’ Towards Individuals Living with HIV

Authors : Özen İnam, Özlem Çiftçi

Pages : 313-321

View : 66 | Download : 28

Publication Date : 2025-08-25

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :This study aims to measure the knowledge and attitudes of healthcare providers such as nurses, midwives, paramedics, and health technicians (n:122) towards individuals living with HIV. This descriptive, quantitative study targeted allied healthcare providers in Istanbul, such as nurses, midwives, technicians, and paramedics, using the snowball sampling method. Based on the AIDS Knowledge Scale, participants scored between 9 and 21 points, with an average score of 17, indicating a high level of knowledge. A total of 76.2% of healthcare providers reported having received prior information about HIV/AIDS, with 50% (n=61) receiving this training at school. Despite the participants\\\' good knowledge of HIV, it was observed that a small group (average 5.7%) expressed reluctance to provide care to patients with HIV. Furthermore, healthcare providers displayed avoidant attitudes in social interactions with individuals living with HIV, with an average of 44.8% showing hesitancy in their social relationships. These findings indicate that a high level of knowledge about HIV/AIDS is insufficient to overcome prejudices and societal norms. Comprehensive training programs are needed to address attitudes and behaviors in addition to knowledge. Moreover, healthcare providers should be encouraged to adopt more inclusive and supportive practices in both their professional and social interactions.
Keywords : Tutumlar, Sağlık Bilgisi, HIV Enfeksiyonları, Sağlık Çalışanları.

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