HIV infection in women. Implications for nursing practice.

Much remains to be explained regarding women with HIV infection or AIDS. Interest in determining whether the natural history of the disease or the clinical manifestations are gender specific is leading to more research focused on women. The female roles of childbearer and caretaker evoke ethical issues that are unique to this epidemic and that can impact on the development and delivery of health care services. Women at the greatest risk for HIV disease are not likely to form coalitions to advocate for services, research dollars, and education. They need advocates and assistance in becoming united to advocate for themselves. Nurses have a critical role in the provision of services to women with HIV disease. As educators, direct service providers, and administrators, nurses contribute to the development of services that are holistic and family centered. As advocates, nurses can ensure that women are accurately and well informed about the disease and the resources available to them. Because AIDS no longer affects only those persons living in large metropolitan areas, it is imperative that all nurses become experts in the care of women with AIDS and advocates for a better outcome.