Describing emotional experiences of the caregivers working in an HIV/AIDS care centre in Gauteng

M.Ed.Caring for the children infected and affected by HIV/AIDS put a serious emotional strain on the caregivers working in institutions for HIV/AIDS. This study seeks to sensitize policy makers and managers in formal HIV/AIDS care centres about the experiences of the caregivers. Describing emotional experiences of the caregivers broad more light on the challenges facing caregivers working in an HIV/AIDS environment. A phenomenological approach was used to collect data. In exploring emotional experiences of the caregivers a constructivist theoretical framework was followed. Through two focus groups comprising of six participants and four participants in one group respectively and individual interviews caregivers were able to describe their lived emotional experiences of taking care of HIV/AIDS patients. Participating caregivers were interviewed in English, Zulu and Sesotho. Questionnaires were also used in gathering data. 60 questionnaires were distributed to all caregivers working in one centre west of Gauteng. Only 27 caregivers responded to the questionnaires. Data collated revealed that caregivers’ employed in that centre reported to be driven by their desire to give love to children infected and affected by HIV/AIDS Participating caregivers indicated that children who are treated with love show signs of improvement quickly as indicated by Van Dyk (2005). When their patients’ condition improves they also became emotionally fulfilled. Although caring for HIV/AIDS patients involves risks for contracting the HIV they enjoy bringing back smiles in the face of the children under their care. Conditions of service for the caregivers were also raised as another factor that contributes negatively in their emotional experiences. It was revealed that they were caring a heavy load of work due to the number of patients they are taking care and long hours of work. Professional development was also highlighted as one aspect that can improve their working conditions resulting in improved salaries. Hayden and Otaala (2005) found out that training, income generating projects and support could prevent a great deal of stress and distress on the part of children and caregivers living in a residential homes. This was also supported by the participating caregivers during the focus group interviews and individual interviews that they need professional training. 5 In this study it was evident that the work done by caregivers working in an HIV/AIDS environment need to be appreciated and recognized. Participating caregivers reported that in one of the functions held by the centre their contributions were not acknowledged and that had negative impact on their emotional well being. They felt less important than other employees such as professional nurses. Communication breakdown was another factor that came through during the focus group interviews. Caregivers’ indicated that they are regarded as “deadwood”. They are also not consulted in matters that affect them directly citing an incident were counseling sessions was organized for them. Due to the nature of work and their daily experiences with the sick children and bereavement counseling was noted as a critical need during data collection