Browsing by Author "Nkosi, Thandi Hazel"

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    Antiretroviral drug adherence : what happens when patients are hospitalized to medical wards and level one wards in Dr. George Mukhari hospital, Pretoria, and they are on Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy [HAART]
    (Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2010-03) Nkosi, Thandi Hazel; Qubuda, Thozamile; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Economic and Management Science. Dept. of Industrial Psychology. Africa Centre for HIV/AIDS Management.
    ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Purpose of the study The main purpose of the study was to investigate the antiretroviral drug adherence of patients on government HAART regimen while being hospitalized at Dr. George Mukhari hospital in medical wards and level one ward. Ensuring high levels of adherence to antiretroviral treatment is a priority in managing patients with AIDS. Research Design Qualitative and quantitative data was collected prospectively. Data was collected through interviewing patients and registered nurses using structured questionnaires. Doctors’ clinical notes from the participant’s (patients) files were audited to understand the real gaps in failing to support the patients with adherence to their treatment. Findings In investigating the antiretroviral treatment drug adherence of hospitalized patients, two indicators were used:  The percentage of patient’s drug adherence level.  The level of support that is given by registered nurses and doctors to support the patients in maintaining their adherence to treatment while admitted. The research findings from the 25 participants revealed that 28% of patients had >95% adherence level and 72% of patients had <95% adherence level. The level of support from the doctors and registered nurses was poor, there was no commitment. These findings suggest that further studies are needed to improve the adherence level of patients on antiretroviral treatment. Conclusions Adherence to antiretroviral treatment is a powerful predictor of survival for individual living with HIV and AIDS. Factors that contributed to non-adherence should be attended to without delay.