Social stigma Vs protection of care providers

[Guest guest]

Dear members,

I have been working in the field of Quality of care of HIV/AIDS patients and in

the course of my work, have encountered various practical difficulties and

obstacles associated with this " stigmatized " disease. I would encourage your

active comments and participation on the following issue: The healthcare

providers dealing with HIV patienst have a lot to consider regarding their

personal safety in the course of their occupation. For example, the nurses

handling injections, needles, body fluids and secretions etc. for/of HIV

infected persons are at risk of occupational exposure (though accidental / rare,

maybe). But in a situation where we are working towards reducing the stigma

associated with the disease, they may not be adopting protective measures like

masks, gloves etc. This is a double-edged sword and we researchers, especially,

those into the quality of care, have to consider the options for such

situations.

I would welcome your opinions / suggestions on this issue.. In solidarity

S.Gomathi

E-mail: <saigomathi@...>