Abstract

This study assesses the level of knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) regarding the care of people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) among nursing and midwifery students in Fako, Cameroon. As frontline healthcare providers, nursing and midwifery students play a crucial role in the management and care of PLWHA. Therefore, their KAP towards HIV/AIDS is essential for ensuring quality care and reducing the stigma associated with the disease.

The research utilizes a cross-sectional survey design, targeting nursing and midwifery students across various training institutions in Fako. Data collection involved the use of structured questionnaires, which evaluated students’ knowledge about HIV/AIDS transmission, prevention, and treatment. Additionally, the study explored students’ attitudes towards PLWHA, including stigma and discrimination, as well as their self-reported practices in providing care to these patients.

Initial findings indicate that while a significant proportion of students possess adequate knowledge about HIV/AIDS, misconceptions still persist, particularly concerning transmission routes and treatment options. Attitudes towards PLWHA vary, with some students expressing concerns about personal safety when providing care. This, in turn, affects their willingness to engage fully in caring for HIV-positive patients. Furthermore, the study highlights that practical experience with PLWHA during training influences students’ attitudes and practices, emphasizing the importance of hands-on learning in shaping future healthcare providers’ competencies.

The research underscores the need for enhanced curriculum content that addresses both the cognitive and affective domains of HIV/AIDS care. It advocates for the integration of comprehensive HIV/AIDS education, including stigma reduction and ethical practice, into the training programs for nursing and midwifery students. By improving the KAP among these students, the study aims to contribute to better healthcare outcomes for PLWHA and foster a more supportive and stigma-free healthcare environment in Fako, Cameroon.

Keywords
HIV/AIDS care, knowledge, attitudes, practices, nursing students, midwifery students, Fako, Cameroon, stigma, healthcare education.