Problems of guardians of under-five children living with HIV/AIDS Chitipa district
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Date
2008-12-01
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Kamuzu University of Health Sciences
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to assess problems; biological, psychological, socio-cultural, environmental and politico-economic, of guardians of under five children living with HIV and AIDS. A descriptive quantitative design was used. Twenty-four guardians were interviewed. Seven female, seven males, at Chitipa District Hospital and the villages nearby. Convenience sampling method was used. Data was collected using a semi-structured questionnaire. Data analysis was done manually using descriptive statistics — frequency distributions and percentages; were presented in form of tables, graphs and charts using a computer program excel. Findings revealed that guardians have numerous biological, psychological, socio-cultural, environmental and politico-economic problems. These problems hinder them from providing good care to the children. As a result most of the children suffer and others even die. The researcher recommends that the government and stakeholders Should extend their support to the guardians of under five children living with HIV and AIDS. There is need to work with them closely in the process of identifying their own problems and soliciting strategies to address the identified problems. The researcher believes that reduction of guardian's problems through guardian empowerment is fundamental to cut down suffering and mortality among under-five children living with and AIDS.