Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study involving eligible HCPs from different healthcare settings in northern Nigeria. The participants were recruited into the study using a combination of online (via Google Form) and face-to-face paper-based survey methods. The ASV knowledge of the respondents was measured using a validated anti-snake venom knowledge assessment tool (AKAT). Inadequate overall knowledge of ASV was defined as scores of 0-69.9%, and 70-100% were considered adequate overall knowledge scores. The predictors of ASV knowledge were determined using multiple logistic regression.
Results: Three hundred and thirty-one (331) eligible HCPs were included in the study analysis (310 from online and 21 from paper-based survey). Overall, an estimated 12.7% of the participants had adequate knowledge of ASV. Adequate ASV knowledge was higher among physicians compared with other HCPs (21.7%; χ2 = 8.1; p = 0.04). Those without previous training on ASV (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 0.37; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.18-0.73; p = 0.004) and who have not previously administered/dispensed ASV (aOR, 0.31; 95% CI, 0.15-0.63; p
OBJECTIVES: Our main purpose is to give a voice to disempowered women living with HIV, by normalising the discussion of HIV, to empower health professionals to better understand the issues faced by women living with HIV, and develop improved treatment practices.
DESIGN: Our project was guided by a Feminist Participatory Action Research (FPAR) framework. FPAR refers to 'a participatory and action-oriented approach to research that centres gender and women's experiences both theoretically and practically'. It creates meaningful participation for women throughout the research process, ensuring a collective critical consciousness that challenges oppressive attitudes, beliefs, and practices that may be deeply embedded in society.
METHOD: Purposive sampling and a thematic analysis was applied to focus group discussions with 20 women living with HIV and 20 women without HIV in Palembang, South Sumatra.
RESULTS: When women living with HIV face a difficult decision, do they disclose their status knowing that they may face stigma and even a refusal to be treated; or do they conceal their status and face not receiving the right care? In this article, we explore the stories of women living with HIV as they seek medical treatment during the COVID-19 pandemic. We show that there is no optimal solution for women as they lose whether they disclose their HIV status or not.
CONCLUSION: Women's stories around HIV and COVID-19 intersect with conditions such as poverty and discrimination, as well as embedded gender systems, creating overlapping barriers to treatment. Government must challenge this culture by introducing a comprehensive sex and HIV education programme. This would normalise discussions of HIV-related topics, leading to improved health outcomes.