Attitudes towards HIV/AIDS patients and empathic tendencies: A study of Turkish undergraduate nursing students

Ozakgul A. A., Sendir M., Atav A. S., Kiziltan B.

NURSE EDUCATION TODAY, vol.34, no.6, pp.929-933, 2014 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 34 Issue: 6
  • Publication Date: 2014
  • Doi Number: 10.1016/j.nedt.2013.10.018
  • Journal Name: NURSE EDUCATION TODAY
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI), Scopus
  • Page Numbers: pp.929-933
  • Istanbul University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Background: Studies indicate that the attitudes of nurses, nursing students, and other health care professionals towards Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) patients are affected by cultural differences and the fear of HIV/AIDS infection, resulting in both negative attitudes and reluctance to care for these patients. Empathy is critical for all health professionals in the delivery of effective care. Research indicates that as empathic tendencies develop, so do better communication skills, better attitudes, and better quality of care.