title: Health Care Workers' Suggestions for Improving HIV-Related Maternal Care in South Africa: "Listen to Us".
abstract: BACKGROUND
  South Africa has the highest rate of individuals infected with HIV in the world. Women in particular are at increased risk for HIV infection and typically receive care from nurses and midwives who are on the front lines of health care policy and program implementation. The primary objective of this study was to compile and analyze suggestions generated by health care professionals on how to improve HIV-related maternal care in South Africa. This information can then be used to inform the direction of future programs across the country and beyond.
  
  
  METHODS
  Two hundred forty-nine nurses, midwives, and nursing students enrolled in a South African university completed surveys as part of this qualitative cross-sectional study. Responses were transcribed and coded by independent researchers who met frequently to discuss and come to consensus on emerging themes.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Four primary strategies to improve HIV-related maternal care emerged from the data. These women's health professionals suggested improving education, increasing grassroots-level participation by government officials, improving resources, and developing strategies aimed at decreasing the risk of secondary transmission of HIV.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Nurses and midwives are frontline health care professionals who are in unique positions to offer feedback on how HIV-related maternal care can be improved. The identified strategies should be integrated into future programs, and human rights implications must be examined.
authors.forename: Lauren C
authors.initials: LC
authors.lastname: Taylor
authors.forename: Cynthia D
authors.initials: CD
authors.lastname: Fair
authors.forename: Cheryl
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Nikodem
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D005260:Female; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000453:epidemiology*; D006801:Humans; D008427:Maternal Health Services; D009726:Nurses; D011247:Pregnancy; D058996:Quality Improvement; D013019:South Africa / Q000453:epidemiology; D013338:Students, Nursing; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D016387:Women's Health
keywords: HIV; South Africa; health care provider; maternal care; quality of care