17th Annual Student Research Conference
Human Potential and Performance
Prenatal Screening for HIV in Northeast Missouri
Hattie M. McDowell
Dr. Stephanie A. Powelson, Faculty Mentor
HIV/AIDS has been recognized in the US since 1981. While initially thought to be a gay man’s disease, HIV and AIDS was soon diagnosed in women and children. Before treatment was commonly available, transmission of HIV during pregnancy from mother to child ranged from 16% to 25%. With combination drug therapy, the risk of maternal transmission was reduced to <2%. The US Public Health Service has recommended routine HIV testing during the prenatal period. This research study surveyed obstetrical practices in northeast Missouri to determine whether prenatal HIV screening was recommended or offered. This study was conducted in several northeast Missouri counties. This study may have increased practitioners’ awareness about routinely screening for HIV during pregnancy. Pre-test and post-test counseling may assist clients in reducing multiple risk factors related to HIV transmission. This undergraduate research study received IRB approval, funding from Truman State University, and was conducted during Summer 2003.
Keywords: HIV, prenatal, AIDS, screening, northeast, Missouri, obstetrical, counseling
Topic(s):Nursing
Presentation Type: Oral Paper
Session: 18-1
Location: VH 1408
Time: 10:00