ABSTRACT
Despite acknowledgement of the importance of sharing HIV- and AIDS-related information with people living with HIV; it is still unclear as to what their actual comprehension is of this information. This research was part of a larger project; Tswaragano; conducted in the North-West Province; South Africa; which explored and described the competence; ability and strengths of the family of the HIV-positive patient during home support. This research focused on Potchefstroom in the North-West Province. This article focuses on research with the objective being to explore and describe the comprehension of HIV-positive patients and their families with regard to HIV- and AIDS-related information; and to formulate recommendations to improve their comprehension of this information. A quantitative; explorative and descriptive survey design was followed. Data were collected by means of questionnaires completed by HIV-positive patients (n = 79) and their family members (n = 34). Descriptive statistical analysis by means of frequency analysis was conducted. Ethical considerations and mechanisms to enhance validity and reliability are discussed. The results indicated that both HIV-positive respondents and their families face social and financial challenges due to unemployment and low income. A strength found in this research is that the majority of respondents are linked to a church; which can be a valuable platform to share information on HIV and AIDS. With regards to sharing; sources and comprehension of HIV- and AIDS-related information; it is apparent that respondents perceived that pre- and post-counselling provided an opportunity for information sharing; but that they need health care workers to spend more time with them; to be non-judgemental and to make more use of visual aids. It furthermore seems that the majority of HIV-positive respondents in this study did comprehend the need for and negotiate for safer sexual practices. It was concluded that although HIV-positive patients and their families have relatively good levels of comprehension of HIV- and AIDS-related information; there are certain gaps in their comprehension of this information. Accordingly; recommendations regarding improving comprehension of HIV-related information were formulated. Recommendations for nursing education; research and practice were formulated. These recommendations highlight the importance of openness in communication; building trust relationships; collaboration; cultural sensitivity and empowering HIV-positive patients and their families