Abstract

EHLERS, Valerie J.  and  CHIEGIL, Robert J.. Nigerian health workers' views concerning factors influencing paediatric adherence to anti-retroviral therapy. Health SA Gesondheid (Online) [online]. 2011, vol.16, n.1, pp.1-9. ISSN 2071-9736.

Few studies have focused on paediatric anti-retroviral therapy (ART) adherence in Nigeria, probably because of the ethical challenges involved in studying children. The study aimed to identify factors that influence paediatric ART adherence as perceived by health care workers providing ART services in two cities in Nigeria. Knowledge about such factors would be used to formulate recommendations for enhancing paediatric ART adherence in Nigeria, for facilitating the tasks of the health care workers and for enhancing the ART programme's effectiveness. An exploratory descriptive qualitative research design was used to identify and to describe health care workers' views in Kano and Lagos, Nigeria. Three focus group discussions were conducted at two clinics that provide free paediatric ARVs (antiretroviral drugs). The transcribed data were analysed by using the framework approach of data analysis. Health care providers perceived poverty, illiteracy, stigma, discrimination, inappropriate care approaches, and parental dynamics as factors that influence paediatric ART adherence. Paediatric ART adherence levels in Nigeria could be enhanced by emphasising paediatric ART adherence counselling and by adopting a comprehensive family centred care approach, by improving free paediatric ART services and by empowering parents and reducing stigma and discrimination.

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