[Ethical dilemmas of nurses concerning informational privacy of persons with HIV/AIDS. An exploratory study of the kinds of dilemmas, emotional experiences and coping strategies].

Abstract

This paper reports on the results of a study conducted in 1994. The aim of the study was to gain insight into nurses' perceptions of ethical dilemmas concerning informational privacy of patients with hiv/aids. The chosen research method was descriptive, from a qualitative research perspective (Grounded Theory). The purposive sample consisted of seven nurses working in a university hospital. Data were collected by means of in-depth interviews and the critical incidents method. The description of the dilemmas led to a central theme: the nurses' choice whether or not to give information revealing the diagnosis seropositivity or aids to patient's relatives or partner. The core categories were derived from analysis of the descriptions given by the nurses. They are split up into experiences of the nurses and the way nurses cope with these dilemmas. Recommendations are given for promotion of expertise and education.