Abstract:
BACKGROUND/AIM : Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is an important intervention
for survival among children in Sub Saharan Africa where HIV infection rates are
comparatively high. Only few studies have explored issues relating to paediatric
ART initiation and maintenance. This study was conducted to explore the
perceptions and experiences of trained professional nurses regarding paediatric
ART.
METHODS : Six focus group discussions (FGDs) were conducted among trained
professional nurses in selected health facilities in Free State Province, South
Africa. Verbatim transcripts were analysed with a thematic approach.
RESULTS : The participants of this study reported counselling as an important
component of paediatric ART in health facilities. The problem of non-disclosure,
migration, incomplete records from referral health facilities, inadequate health
workforce and difficulty in record keeping were cited as barriers against paediatric
ART.
CONCLUSION : This study showed that initiation and adherence to antiretroviral
therapy among eligible children faces a significant challenge.