Implementation of Universal Test and Treat in selected Clinics in the City of Johannesburg: Professional Nurses Experience

The Human Immunodeficiency Virus is still a significant global health issue, affecting 38 million people worldwide as of 2019, with 26 million receiving antiretroviral treatment by June 2020. This study aimed to understand how professional nurses experienced and dealt with the Universal Test and Treat program in specific clinics in Johannesburg. The researcher conducted a comprehensive literature review, combining qualitative and quantitative research evidence. The search included keywords related to UTT, HIV, professional nurses, and South Africa. Data sources included peer-reviewed journals, reports, and policy documents. The researcher further employed a qualitative research design, using semi-structured interviews to gather data from professional nurses working in HIV intervention programs in Johannesburg. Various measures were taken to ensure the accuracy of the findings. The study received official approval from the Ethics Committee of the University of Venda and the Gauteng District Department of Health. A thematic analysis was employed to identify key themes and patterns in the data, allowing for a comprehensive exploration of the experiences and perspectives of the nurses. The review identified themes and sub-themes related to professional nurses' roles in UTT implementation. Themes included the benefits of UTT, opportunities for improvement, and the importance of nurse involvement in training. Sub-themes encompassed UTT guidelines, improved implementation, health information systems, capitalizing on successful UTT programs, continuous research, and outlining nurse roles. The qualitative study identified various challenges faced by professional nurses in implementing HIV interventions, such as lack of resources, stigma, patient adherence issues and communication barriers. The study presented the perspectives of professional nurses regarding their roles, responsibilities and experiences in delivering HIV interventions, shedding light on their motivations, frustrations and suggestions for improvement. Professional nurses are critical in UTT implementation in South Africa. The review highlighted the benefits of UTT, opportunities for improvement, and the importance of nurse involvement in training and policy development. Strategies to enhance nurse engagement and support are essential for successful UTT implementation and achieving HIV care and treatment goals. Based on the study's findings, it concluded that additional training and support are needed for professional nurses to effectively implement HIV interventions, especially in addressing complex issues like stigma. The research findings led to recommendations for future actions.

Author dc:creator

• Managa, Funanani Agrineth

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Makhado, L.

• Clinics
• City of Johannesburg
• Experiences
• Implementation
• NIMART
• Professional Nurses
• Universal test and treat (UTT)

Statement dc:rights

• University of Venda

Language dc:language.iso

en

Repository record dc:identifier.uri

http://univendspace.univen.ac.za/handle/123456789/2770

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:univendspace.univen.ac.za:123456789/2770