Relationship Of Disclosure Of Children's Status Infected With Human Immunodeficiency Virus To Compliance With Antiretroviral Therapy Drinking Compliance At Adam Malik Hajj Hospital Medan

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Understanding the Global Health Problem of HIV

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a contagious disease that has become a global health problem, affecting millions of people worldwide, including in Indonesia. According to data, the life expectancy of children infected with HIV is only around 13 years, with a high mortality rate before the age of 5 years. This alarming statistic highlights the need for effective treatment and management of the disease. To combat HIV, antiretroviral (ART) therapy is the primary treatment approach. However, compliance in consuming ART is a significant challenge, especially for children.

The Importance of Disclosure of HIV Status in Children

This study was conducted at Adam Malik Hajj Hospital Medan to examine the relationship between disclosure of HIV status in children and compliance with ART. The study involved 82 children infected with HIV selected through the consecutive sampling technique. Data was collected through the MMAS-8 questionnaire and interviews, then analyzed with the SPSS program. The results showed that the majority of respondents were male (57.3%), aged 5-11 years (56.1%), and had undergone ART for 1-3 years (41.5%) or 4-5 years (40.2%). As many as 84.1% of respondents have mothers infected with HIV and 64.6% infected vertically from the mother. Of the 82 respondents, only 35 children (42.7%) had been informed of their HIV status.

The Significance of Disclosure of HIV Status in Children

The results of this study indicate that the disclosure of HIV status to children is very important to increase compliance in taking ART drugs. Here are some reasons why HIV status disclosure is crucial:

Increasing Understanding and Control

By knowing the status of HIV, children can better understand the disease, how to manage treatment, and how to maintain their health. This knowledge empowers children to take an active role in their treatment and decision-making process.

Strengthening Participation

Disclosure of HIV status encourages children to be active in the process of treatment and decision-making related to their health. This participation helps children feel more in control of their lives and more invested in their treatment.

Building Trust

Disclosure of HIV status open communication between children and their caregivers, which helps build trust and strengthens the relationship. This trust is essential for effective treatment and management of the disease.

Preventing Stigma

Disclosure of HIV status in the right way can help children from social stigma and prevent them from feeling isolated. By being open and honest about their HIV status, children can reduce the risk of stigma and discrimination.

Suggestions and Steps Forward

This study provides an important understanding of the role of disclosure of HIV status in increasing compliance with drinking ART in children. To increase compliance with drinking ART in the future, here are some suggestions that can be implemented:

Socialization and Education

Comprehensive socialization and education are needed to parents and children regarding the importance of disclosure of HIV status. This education should focus on the benefits of disclosure, such as increased understanding and control, strengthened participation, and prevention of stigma.

Psychological Support

Children who just know their HIV status may need psychological support to overcome fear, anxiety, and social stigma. This support can be provided through counseling, therapy, or support groups.

Individual Approach

The medical team must use an individual approach in communicating with children and parents related to the disclosure of HIV status. This approach should take into account the unique needs and circumstances of each child and family.

Conclusion

By increasing understanding and support for children infected with HIV, we can jointly help them live a healthier and more meaningful life. The disclosure of HIV status is a crucial step in this process, as it empowers children to take control of their treatment and decision-making process. By implementing the suggestions and steps forward outlined in this study, we can improve compliance with drinking ART in children and ultimately improve their health outcomes.

Recommendations for Future Research

This study highlights the need for further research on the relationship between disclosure of HIV status and compliance with ART in children. Future studies should explore the following:

  • The impact of disclosure of HIV status on mental health outcomes in children
  • The effectiveness of different disclosure methods and approaches
  • The role of family and social support in disclosure and compliance
  • The development of interventions to improve disclosure and compliance in children

By continuing to explore these research questions, we can gain a deeper understanding of the complex issues surrounding HIV disclosure and compliance in children and develop effective strategies to improve their health outcomes.

Understanding the Importance of Disclosure of HIV Status in Children

The disclosure of HIV status in children is a critical aspect of their treatment and management. By knowing their HIV status, children can better understand the disease, how to manage treatment, and how to maintain their health. In this article, we will address some of the most frequently asked questions about disclosure of HIV status in children.

Q: What is the purpose of disclosing HIV status to children?

A: The primary purpose of disclosing HIV status to children is to empower them to take control of their treatment and decision-making process. By knowing their HIV status, children can better understand the disease, how to manage treatment, and how to maintain their health.

Q: How old should a child be before disclosing their HIV status?

A: There is no specific age limit for disclosing HIV status to children. However, it is generally recommended that children be old enough to understand the concept of HIV and its implications. This age can vary depending on the child's cognitive and emotional development.

Q: Who should disclose the HIV status to the child?

A: The disclosure of HIV status should be done by a trusted adult, such as a parent, caregiver, or healthcare provider. This person should be able to provide emotional support and guidance to the child during the disclosure process.

Q: How should HIV status be disclosed to children?

A: The disclosure of HIV status should be done in a sensitive and compassionate manner. The child should be told the truth about their HIV status in a way that is easy for them to understand. The disclosure process should also involve a discussion about the implications of HIV and how it can be managed.

Q: What are the benefits of disclosing HIV status to children?

A: The benefits of disclosing HIV status to children include:

  • Increased understanding and control
  • Strengthened participation in treatment and decision-making
  • Building trust and open communication
  • Prevention of stigma and discrimination

Q: What are the challenges of disclosing HIV status to children?

A: The challenges of disclosing HIV status to children include:

  • Fear and anxiety about the disease
  • Stigma and discrimination from others
  • Difficulty in understanding the disease and its implications
  • Emotional distress and trauma

Q: How can parents and caregivers support children who have been disclosed their HIV status?

A: Parents and caregivers can support children who have been disclosed their HIV status by:

  • Providing emotional support and guidance
  • Encouraging open communication and honesty
  • Helping the child understand the disease and its implications
  • Ensuring the child receives regular medical care and treatment

Q: What are the long-term effects of disclosing HIV status to children?

A: The long-term effects of disclosing HIV status to children can include:

  • Improved mental health outcomes
  • Increased self-esteem and confidence
  • Better adherence to treatment and management
  • Improved relationships with family and friends

Conclusion

Disclosure of HIV status in children is a critical aspect of their treatment and management. By knowing their HIV status, children can better understand the disease, how to manage treatment, and how to maintain their health. By addressing the frequently asked questions about disclosure of HIV status in children, we can better understand the importance of this process and how to support children who have been disclosed their HIV status.