Date of Graduation

Summer 8-9-2019

Document Access

Project/Capstone - Global access

Degree Name

Master of Science in Behavioral Health (MSBH)

College/School

School of Nursing and Health Professions

First Advisor

Dr. Kelly McDermott, MA, PhD

Abstract

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this project was to create awareness of the importance of HIV prevention and testing among clients of St. Anthony’s Foundation. While the aims of this project were to test different recruitment strategies and to propose a protocol for ongoing HIV awareness and testing at St. Anthony’s Foundation through St. Anthony Medical Clinic.

Methods: A key informant interview was conducted to assess the acceptability and feasibility of HIV voluntary counseling and testing among clients of St. Anthony’s Foundation. Strategies for recruitment of participants was developed and implemented. Two hundred and five individuals were approached for HIV counseling and testing, and HIV testing was carried out on those who accepted.

Result: Of the 205 individuals spoken to, seven carried out HIV testing and there was 14.28% seropositive in the population, within the ages of 30-39, homosexual, had multiple sex partners and injection drug user. One hundred percent of participants reported ever having sex without a condom while 28.58% reported ever using PrEP for prevention.

Discussion: Voluntary counseling and testing (VCT) is a good tool for knowledge of HIV status and prevention. However, good strategies for recruiting this population is important for the success of VCT in any given population.

Conclusion: The importance of HIV voluntary counseling and testing among various

populations in society can never be overemphasized. The HIV prevalence in this population shows that there are hidden positive cases among hard to reach populations.

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