Abstract

ABSTRACT Background: Ever since HIV was first identified in India among sex workers in Chennai during 1986, HIV infections have been reported in all states and territories. The knowledge and attitudes of healthcare workers (HCWs) in relation to HIV infection is an important factor influencing the willingness and ability of people with HIV to access care, and the quality of the care they receive. Aims &
Objective: To assess HIV-related knowledge and risk perception among a group of north Indian health care workers (HCW), and to identify predictors of willingness to provide care for patients with HIV infection. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional survey of 450 HCWs from tertiary health care centre was undertaken in March 2011. The information was collected on a semi structured, self-administered questionnaire. Information was gathered regarding demographic details, HIV-related knowledge, risk perception and previous experience caring for HIV-positive patients.
Results: Most (95.7%) were aware of the routes of transmission. 4.1% HCWs wished that they should be allowed to refuse to care for people with HIV/AIDS. HCWs willingness to provide care for patients with HIV was strongly associated with having previously cared for patients with HIV (P = 0.001). Knowledge of HIV transmission and perception of risk were not associated with willingness to provide care (p<0.05). Conclusion: The knowledge of HCW was satisfactory. But periodic updates are required to enhance the knowledge of HCW. These include the development of programmes to promote occupational safety of HCWs and involving people with HIV in awareness training of HCWs.