Abstract
Introduction: The global prevalence of people living with HIV (PLHIV) remains significant, and the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) continues to pose a substantial social and public health challenge. Enhancing the knowledge and competence of student nurses in caring for PLHIV is therefore crucial during their academic training. A comprehensive understanding of HIV is essential for developing student nurses’ confidence in providing high-quality care to HIV-positive patients.
Aim: To assess the level of knowledge of first-year student nurses regarding caring for PLHIV and the factors associated with their knowledge at a healthcare facility in Johannesburg, South Africa.
Methods: A quantitative, descriptive study design was employed to evaluate the level of knowledge of first-year student nurses in caring for PLHIV, with a purposive sampling approach used to select study participants. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire with closed-ended questions. To ensure reliability, the researcher used a structured questionnaire, which promoted consistency in data collection. Validity was supported by incorporating questions that addressed key aspects of HIV care, thereby ensuring that the study assessed the intended constructs. Data were then analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), version 28. The researcher obtained ethical approval from the appropriate Research Ethics Committee (REC) before the study commenced. Informed consent was then obtained from all participants, confirming their understanding of the study's purpose and voluntary agreement to participate.
Results: The results indicated that first-year student nurses generally possessed a high level of knowledge regarding caring for PLHIV, although some variability was observed. Notably, certain critical areas related to HIV transmission and care revealed knowledge gaps. Quantitative analysis showed that 56 out of 79 participants (70.9%) were classified as having a high level of HIV-related knowledge, while 23 participants (29.1%) demonstrated a lower level of knowledge. Among those with low knowledge (n=23), seven were male (30.4%), and 16 were female (69.6%), while among those with high knowledge (n=56), 12 were male (21.4%) and 44...