AIDS testing, an ethical question.
The AIDS epidemic has presented hospital administrators and nurses with ethicolegal questions and responsibilities unprecedented in this generation. AIDS testing and confidentiality are only one set of issues that can arise from this disease. Since nurses assume responsibility for direct care of hospitalized AIDS patients, it is the nurse's responsibility to become informed about all aspects of AIDS and its impact on those affected. Questions regarding testing in the hospital setting have been discussed and suggestions offered to help cope with the problem. Problems associated with AIDS are expected to increase, and it becomes the duty of the hospital to be prepared to act as a community role model of non-discrimination.
Wold
J L
JL
Department of Community Health Nursing, School of Nursing, College of Health Sciences, Georgia State University, Atlanta 30303.
D000163:Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D003219:Confidentiality / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence; D003428:Cross Infection / Q000517:prevention & control*; D004992:Ethics, Medical; D006801:Humans; D007587:Job Description; D008403:Mass Screening / Q000379:methods*; D009741:Nursing Staff, Hospital; D010344:Patient Advocacy / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence; D014481:United States