Vhilinga Mafune
University of Venda, South Africa
Title: Challenges experienced by primary and secondary caregivers of children on antiretroviral therapy at Mutale Municipality in the Vhembe District of Limpopo Province, South Africa
Biography
Biography: Vhilinga Mafune
Abstract
Human Immunodefi ciency Virus (HIV)/Acquired Immune Defi ciency Syndrome (AIDS) commonly referred to as HIV/ AIDS has a devastating impact on the lives of African men, women and children. HIV/AIDS decreases the life expectancy of aff ected South Africans and leave many families and children socially and economically vulnerable and socially stigmatized. HIV/AIDS also results in increasing numbers of AIDS orphans and mortality among young adults and in 2007, 12.1 million South African (SA) children were estimated to have been orphaned due to HIV/AIDS. In addition, 300000 SA children were estimated to be in need of antiretroviral (ARV) treatment (ART) in 2010 whilst the estimated ARV coverage was at 36%. Th is study explored and described the challenges experienced by primary and secondary caregivers of children on antiretroviral therapy (ART) at Mutale municipality, Vhembe district in the Limpopo province. Th e study sought to achieve the following objective: Identify the challenges experienced by primary and secondary caregivers of children on ART at Mutale municipality, Vhembe district and to make recommendations to appropriate stakeholders on the basis of challenges identifi ed, how the government may use such challenges to develop further programs to improve the quality of life of caregivers of children on ART. Th e research design was qualitative, explorative, descriptive and contextual using a phenomenological approach. Th e study population consisted of all primary and secondary caregivers of children 0 to 15 years of age on ART at Mutale municipality from April 2013 to March 2014. Non-probability purposive sampling was used to select participants. Th e objectives of the study were met through data collection by means of unstructured phenomenological interviews using an interview guide. One central question was asked and more questions emanated from the discussion. Data collection was done up to 16 female caregivers because no new information was forthcoming from the caregivers. Data from participants were collated into themes and sub-themes. Th ree themes from primary and secondary caregivers emerged from analysis of the raw data namely (THEME-1) challenges faced by caregivers of children on ART, (THEME-2) psychological challenges experienced and (THEME-3) positive perceptions related to caring for children on ART. Th e trust worthiness of the qualitative data was established following four criteria namely credibility, transferability, dependability and conformability. Participant’s rights were respected. Permission to conduct a study was sought from relevant authorities. In addition, freedom from harm was ensured and the right to privacy and right to self-respect were maintained. It is recommended that all primary and secondary caregivers be motivated to participate in community projects to generate income and alleviate poverty. Th e study suggested that the government should develop organizations or community centers that will support and empower caregivers to cope with challenges of caring for children on ART. Th e conclusions were discussed in relation to the objectives of the study.