Management and Mastery: A Grounded Theory Study of Resilience in the Context of HIV Infection

De Santis, Joseph P.

Tuesday, July 12, 2011: 2:05 PM

Joseph P. De Santis, PhD, ARNP, ACRN
School of Nursing & Health Studies, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL
Aubrey L. Florom-Smith, BSN, RN
School of Nursing and Health Studies, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL
Amber Lea Vermeesch, MSN, RN, NP-C
School of Nursing and Health Studies, University of Miami School of Nursing and Health Studies, Coral Gables, FL

Learning Objective 1: Describe resilience in the context of HIV infection.

Learning Objective 2: Discuss nursing interventions to promote resilience among clients with HIV infection.

Purpose: Clients with HIV infection have been conceptualized as a resilient population. Although a few studies have documented resilience among clients with HIV infection, a theory of resilience in the context of HIV infection has not been developed. The purpose of this study was to describe the process by which resilience occurs in the context of HIV infection.

Methods: Grounded theory methodology was used to analyze the data from 15 qualitative interviews of adults living with HIV infection. Data were collected until data saturation was reached.

Results: A theory that describes the process by which resilience occurs in the context of HIV infection, Management and Mastery, emerged from the data.

Conclusion: Many clients living with HIV infection are resilient despite the physical, psychological, and social implications of this chronic illness. Nursing interventions to promote resilience among clients with HIV infection should be directed toward identification of client motivation factors and disease management strategies that may influence the health outcomes among clients with HIV infection.

See more of: Health Promotion Initiatives for HIV/AIDS Patients
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