Home healthcare needs of adults living with HIV disease/AIDS in New York City

Abstract

The authors' primary purpose was to identify home healthcare needs of adults (N = 244) living with HIV disease/AIDS. The study followed a retrospective chart review of a stratified random sample of cases discharged during 1991 from a certified home health agency (CHHA) in New York City. Frequently observed signs and symptoms included dyspnea, weakness, fatigue/lethargy, pain, ataxia, cough, skin lesions, and memory deficit. Additional problems identified included inadequate nutrition, issues related to compliance with prescribed medications, inadequate in-home support systems, inadequate facilities/utilities in the home, financial concerns and lifestyles that included drug/alcohol abuse and tobacco use. The results suggest that the health care needs of people living with HIV disease/AIDS in the home care setting are multifaceted and extend beyond the clinical manifestations of HIV disease.