Nurses’ knowledge, attitudes and experiences on the implementation of tuberculosis preventive therapy among HIV positive patients in north sub-district, eThekwini

Abstract

Introduction Tuberculosis (TB) is a common opportunistic infection that occurs more often in people living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) because of their weakened immune system, thus increasing their risk of contracting tuberculosis. In the year 2010 isoniazid was introduced by the World Health Organisation for people living with HIV who had no presumptive TB symptoms to prevent TB incidence. The recommended regimen is a daily dose of 5mg/kg 300mg isoniazid for at least six months extended to nine months if there is interruption of treatment. However, tuberculosis continues to affect people living with HIV. Purpose of the study The purpose of the study was to explore knowledge, attitudes and experiences of professional nurses on the implementation of tuberculosis preventive therapy (TPT) among HIV positive patients who are found to have not contracted TB, in selected primary health care facilities. Methodology A descriptive quantitative cross-sectional survey design was used to determine the factors that influence implementation of tuberculosis preventive therapy by professional nurses to HIV positive patients without presumptive TB features. Census sampling of respondents was used to gather a sample of 120 professional nurses. Results of the study The results indicated that the majority of respondents had knowledge about TPT and a positive attitude towards its implementation. Some respondents had no experience of TPT implementation. A few respondents reported not implementing TPT for various reasons, including fear of side effects in patients. Conclusion This study found that knowledge and experience are critical in changing attitudes of professional nurses as well as encouraging them to implement TPT among HIV positive patients to prevent TB incidence.