Malawian midwives' perceptions of occupational risk for HIV infection.
In this study, Malawian midwives' perceptions of occupational risk of human immunodefiency virus (HIV) infection are described. Knowledge of perceptions of HIV risk in developing countries and consequences on patient care is limited. A qualitative approach using purposive sampling was undertaken with 7 midwives. Participants considered their occupational risk to be high, encompassing these four themes: exposure to body fluids, availability of resources, hand washing practices, and support from management. Additional themes related to the impact of high risk on clinical practice: working in a climate of fear, refraining from touch, loss of interest in midwifery, and improvising care practices.
Mondiwa
Martha
M
Nurses and Midwives Council of Malawi, Malawi, Africa.
Hauck
Yvonne
Y
D000163:Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome / Q000517:prevention & control* / Q000635:transmission; D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D017758:Infectious Disease Transmission, Patient-to-Professional / Q000517:prevention & control*; D007400:Interprofessional Relations; D007587:Job Description; D007588:Job Satisfaction; D008295:Malawi; D008880:Midwifery; D024802:Nurse's Role; D009784:Occupational Diseases / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000523:psychology*; D016273:Occupational Exposure / Q000517:prevention & control*; D012307:Risk Factors; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires