Exploration of adaptation process and experience among the HIV/AIDS patients based on the comprehensive task-based adaptation model.

OBJECTIVES

Patients with human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) confront multiple difficulties during the disease adaptation process. Based on the comprehensive task-based adaptation model, this study aims to explore the process and experience of adapting to living with HIV among HIV/AIDS patients and to provide evidence for promoting the adaptation of this population.

METHODS

With the design of the phenomenon study, we purposefully recruited 43 HIV/AIDS patients and conducted semi-structural interviews. The qualitative data was analyzed by Van Manen method.

RESULTS

There were 1 307 significant quotes and 6 themes with 14 sub-themes. "The shadow comes along with the sunshine" was proposed to describe the process of adapting to life with HIV. Another 5 themes emerged to represent the tasks as follows: the direction of the mental anchor, the management of physical tasks, social network and support, the occupational dilemma and benefits, and the consideration of the future.

CONCLUSIONS

The adapting process possesses both common and personalized characteristics. Future intervention development should address the integrality and interaction of the adaptation tasks, contributing to the positive adaptation outcomes of HIV/AIDS patients.