Reducing perinatal HIV transmission among HIV-infected pregnant women

Rita M. Soza-Vento, Lakeesha Flowers, Alelia E. Munroe, Kathy Fritz, Ana Rua-Dobles, Carmel Munroe, Bill Singer

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Background: In 1995, Help Understand and Guide-Me (HUG-Me) began planning the implementation of Protocol 076, a treatment that aids in the reduction of perinatal transmission of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). A program coordinator and a social worker worked with a 1,572 bed-hospital system to successfully implement the protocol. Methods: Program effectiveness was tracked through monitoring of client outcomes. HIV test results of infants born to HIV-infected mothers were tracked for nine years. In addition, chart audits were conducted on all patients to ensure that testing and counseling were documented for every pregnant woman who delivered at the hospital. Results: From 1996 to 2005, among 434 births to HIV-infected women enrolled in the clinic, only one HIV-infected infant was born. Chart audits revealed that HIV testing and counseling were not being performed and/or documented by all physicians. Therefore, in-service training was initiated for providers on a regular basis. In addition, other factors were addressed to aid patient adherence to treatment. Discussion: The initiatives success in virtually eliminating perinatal transmission has had a major impact in reducing rates of pediatric HIV/AIDS for the community.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)187-192
Number of pages6
JournalJoint Commission Journal on Quality and Patient Safety
Volume33
Issue number4
StatePublished - Apr 2007
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Leadership and Management

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