Communication In Elimination Of Mother To Child Transmission (Mtct) Of Hiv
Silas Esther A
Department of Nursing Science, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria
Clementina U Nwankwo
Department of Nursing Science, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria
Obidife Ifeoma H
Department of Nursing Science, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria
Keywords: Communication, HIV, Pregnancy, Mother, Child
Abstract
Communication is the process of transmitting or transferring information, thought and ideas from one person to another. The information moves from a sender through a channel to a receiver who gives a feedback. Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a virus that attacks and weakens the immune system thereby rendering the infected individual susceptible to infections. It can be transmitted from a pregnant woman to her baby during pregnancy, labour and breastfeeding. This transmission can also be eliminated/prevented. Communication in elimination of mother to child transmission (EMTCT) of HIV entails transmission of relevant information on PMTCT services so as to prevent the transmission of the virus from mother to child. To effectively communicate to HIV positive mothers, ten skills of effective communication which include verbal and non-verbal skills, active listening, written communication, patient education, trust, compassion, cultural awareness, making personal connections, presentation skills and written communication, are to be adopted. Barriers to effective communication can be physical, psychological or social.