Knowledge and attitudes of youth in relation to provider initiated counselling and testing at the primary health care services in South Africa

International Conference on HIV/AIDS, STDs, & STIs

October 24-25, 2013 Holiday Inn Orlando International Airport, Orlando, FL, USA

Malatji S. P. S and Maputle M. S

Posters: J AIDS Clin Res

Abstract :

P rovider-initiated counselling and testing refers to HIV counselling and testing which is routinely recommended by health care providers to persons attending health care facilities as a standard component of medical care. PICT promotes universal access to prevention, care and treatment services for all clients by increasing the utilisation and acceptance of HIV counselling and testing services. The knowledge of one?s status is important for preventing the spread of the infection. As indicated by the World Health Organisation, those clients who have learnt that they are HIV positive are able to modify their behaviour with the purpose of reducing the risk of HIV transmission. The objective was to assess the knowledge and determine attitudes of youth in relation to provider initiated HIV counselling and testing at the primary health care services in South Africa. The context of the study was four primary health care facilities. The target population was the youth between the ages of 16 and 35 years. Participants who were between less than 18 years, consent to participate was obtained from parents or guardians. The sampling method was non-probability convenient sampling, while data were gathered by using a structured questionnaire. The data was summarised by means of descriptive statistics. Validity and reliability were ensured by undertaking a literature review; and developing and pre- testing the questionnaire. Ethical considerations were adhered to. Results indicated that youth had knowledge and awareness of the availability of PICT services; however had negative attitudes on the utilization of the services. Recommendations were made for future research studies in the field of HIV and AIDS prevention, and establishment of youth-friendly HCT services at primary health care facilities.

Biography :

Malatji Sekobo Pupuru Samuel has completed his undergraduate Bachelor Degree studies in Nursing Science from University of Limpopo of South Africa and he also completed his postgraduate Masters Degree studies in Nursing Science from University of Venda of South Africa, under the supervision of Professor MS Maputle. He is currently working as a Clinical Nurse Practitioner in the Department of Health of South Africa. His area of interest is in the field HIV/ AIDS and STIs programs