Registered Nurses’ experiences of caring for children with HIV/AIDS in South Africa

Abstract: Background: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a global problem and the total number of people living with HIV is approximately 34 million. Little is known about registered nurses’ experiences of caring for children with HIV/AIDS in South Africa.   Aim: The aim of the study was to describe registered nurses’ experiences of caring for children with HIV/AIDS in South Africa. Method: A qualitative research approach was used. Data was collected by interviews which were analyzed using content analysis. The interviews were conducted at a private hospital in Cape Town, South Africa. Results: The following ten topics were found; self-fulfillment, being supportive, being hopeful, being adaptable, being non-judgmental, helplessness, loneliness, sadness, stress and frustration. Conclusion: There is a constant balance between feelings of powerlessness and the ability of being mentally strong when caring for children with HIV/AIDS.   Keywords: HIV/AIDS, children, registered nurses’ experiences, South Africa