13th International AIDS Conference Durban, South Africa - July 9-July 14, 2000

Int Conf AIDS 2000 Jul 9-14; 13:(abstract no. ThOrB752)

Assoni JF, Bueno JM, Silva LD, Branco CA, Silva GD
J.F. Assoni, Brazilian STD/AIDS Program - MOH, Esplanada dos Ministerios, Bloco G - Sobreloja, Brazil, Tel.: +55 61 315 2810 / 2520 / 24, Fax: +55 61 225 2105, E-mail: aids@aids.gov.br

ISSUE: Using a modular material and problem-based methodology, the Brazilian Aids Programme is developing training courses for nurses working with HIV/AIDS.

DESCRIPTION: In 1996 the Brazilian Aids Programme Training Team formulated a modular training course employing problem-based methodology based on the WHO/GPA Manual "HIV Prevention and Care: teaching modules for nurses and midwives"(1993), suitably adapted to Brazilian circumstances. The modules deal with epidemiology and transmission, prevention, counselling and care of HIV/AIDS patients. A general training strategy was then adopted and in the course of the year three regional training sessions took place, embracing all 27 Brazilian states. A university nurse and another from the public health service from each state were chosen, thus assuring integration between teaching institutions and government health services. On return to their own states each pair was responsible for formulating a project to take account of regional HIV/AIDS disparities. Training for the teams took place in 1997 and the first half of 1998. These teams undertook to train the next nursing group in sequence, thereby introducing a continuous education process. The projects are being followed-up and evaluated by an advisory training group from the Brazilian AIDS Programme. 26 contracts were signed with Senior Nursing Schools, covering 90% of the country. Up to June 1998, 1.920 nurses and 1.393 nursing assistants were trained by this method. In 1999, 21 contracts were renewed. According to the project-coordinators 445 more nurses were trained by the end of 1999. Teaching material has been considered suitable.

CONCLUSION: Taking into account the important role of nursing in the quality of care and prevention of HIV/AIDS, the training sessions improved skills in areas such as biosafety, in the relationship between patients and health professionals, and in other aspects of care. Importantly, the training also enhanced technical and humanitarian aspects of care and should help to overcome prejudice.

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