Global prevalence and incidence of HIV are still on the increase, especially in sub-Saharan Africa and Eastern Europe. Primarily medical/ nursing students are at risk for HIV infections, because they are working close to patients, and due to their age, they present increased sexual activity. In the multi-center-study the assessments on the risk of acquiring HIV in different clinical and non-clinical situations by German medical/ dental students (n=182), Lithuanian medical students (n=176) and Namibian student nurses (n=135) were analyzed by using anonymous questionnaires. Additional, condom use was asked. The Namibian student nurses overestimated the risk of HIV transmission in several situations (e.g. changing dirty linen, physical examination). In comparison, the Lithuanian students showed the most realistic assessments, while the German students tended to overestimate the risks of infection. Only in situations like using the same needle for several patients or unprotected sexual intercourse with a new partner, most of the Lithuanian and some German students underestimated the potential risk of acquiring HIV. Less than 50% of sexually active students in all samples were always using condoms. The results indicate, that assessments on the risk of HIV transmission are influenced by the national HIV/ AIDS prevalence and daily contacts to HIV patients. Medical education should consider this and focus more on HIV/ AIDS related aspects and infection control, to avoid endangering patients and health professionals.
Learning Objectives: N/A.
Keywords: HIV/AIDS, Education
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.