| Learning Objective #1: List at least three evidence-based statements regarding symptom management for people living with HIV/AIDS | |||
| Learning Objective #2: Link symptom management with nursing's international agenda of evidence-based practice |
Several investigators have noted that one of nursing’s significant contributions to the care of individuals living with HIV disease is in the area of symptom management. A review of the literature on symptom management in HIV/AIDS concludes that symptoms are a significant issue for persons living with HIV/AIDS, the meaning of living with this symptom experience can only be captured from the client’s perspective, quality of life decreases as the severity of symptoms increases for persons living with HIV/AIDS, and little is known about the relationship between self-care symptom management strategies and symptom status in HIV. Given the current optimistic clinical trajectory for many persons living with HIV/AIDS, enhancing our understanding of the symptom experience from the client’s perspective and providing knowledge of medical and self-care strategies available will improve the quality of care for people living with HIV/AIDS. Key points include: 1) Symptoms are a significant issue for persons living with HIV/AIDS; 2) The meaning of living with this symptom experience can only be captured from the client’s perspective; 3) Patient’s quality of life decreases as the severity of symptoms increases; 4) Little is known about the relationship between self-care symptom management strategies and symptom status in HIV; and, 5) Evidence-based symptom management practice offers nurses an opportunity to enhance the quality of their care.
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Sigma Theta Tau International
9 July 2003