Maintaining normalcy: a grounded theory of engaging in HIV-oriented primary medical care

ANS Adv Nurs Sci. 2005 Jul-Sep;28(3):265-77. doi: 10.1097/00012272-200507000-00008.

Abstract

Despite advances in the medical treatment of HIV disease, marginalized populations continue to shoulder a disproportionate burden of HIV/AIDS-related morbidity and mortality. This study explored the process by which clients at HIV-oriented primary care clinics transition from being sporadic users of care to engaging as regular users of care. A model illustrating how participants were striving to maintain normalcy, manage perceptions, and develop life mastery skills contributes to an understanding of living with HIV disease in a social context. Elements of the model are sensitive to nursing interventions aimed at improving health outcomes and reducing health disparities among persons at highest risk.

Publication types

  • Multicenter Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adaptation, Psychological*
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Community Health Centers / statistics & numerical data*
  • District of Columbia
  • Educational Status
  • Female
  • HIV Infections / psychology*
  • HIV Infections / therapy
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Models, Psychological
  • Patient Acceptance of Health Care / psychology*
  • Prejudice
  • Primary Health Care / statistics & numerical data*
  • Social Isolation
  • Social Support
  • Socioeconomic Factors
  • Vulnerable Populations / psychology*