The impact of an education intervention to change nurses' HIV-related knowledge and attitudes in Lithuania: a randomized controlled trial

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to describe the effect of an intervention program on nurses' HIV-related knowledge and attitudes in Lithuania. The program focused on HIV epidemiology, transmission, coinfections, treatment and care, risk contacts, and moral and ethical dilemmas. It was designed to increase nurses' knowledge and positive attitudes concerning HIV. The study used a randomized controlled trial design with two experimental groups ([EG]; EG1, n = 63, EG2, n= 63) and one control group (n= 59) in three Lithuanian hospitals. Data were collected using a questionnaire developed by Held (1993). The questionnaire included questions about participant demographic characteristics, knowledge, and attitudes toward those living with HIV. The education intervention, which combined a 2-day workshop and written materials, had a positive effect on the knowledge levels of nurses. However, written materials alone failed to improve nurses' knowledge or change their attitudes.