Education

It is in the education arena that the strength of a nurse-led model of care becomes clear. A nurse with experience in caring for women with HIV in pregnancy can help to educate not only the woman and her significant others, but the wider health and allied health community caring for her.

This can take the form of formal education sessions, provision of written material, mentoring of less experienced staff, developing Nursing Care Plans and serving as a resource for other nurses and midwives as required.

Education is important for breaking down preconceived or ill-informed ideas that individuals may have about HIV.  A supportive and open manner helps provide the best environment for a pregnant woman to thrive during her pregnancy.

There are many valuable resources that can be accessed for use in education about HIV in pregnancy. Some useful and accessible resources are listed below