ABSTRACT
This study describes strategies used by Dutch HIV nurse consultants to promote adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) and the assumptions on which these strategies were based. The study used a descriptive qualitative design with individual and focus group interviews. Individual semi-structured interviews (n = 23) focusing on adherence-supporting procedures and case-based focus groups (3 groups with 5-7 participants each) focusing on adherence strategies were held with HIV nurse consultants (n = 19). The strategies described were mainly based on experience. Theoretical principles were rarely discussed and participants seldom referred to the literature. Adherence-promoting strategies were identified for two phases: (a) before beginning ART and (b) during follow-up care while on ART. Strategies that were not used in one specific phase were categorized under "all phases." Data yielded useful ideas for the care of HIV-infected patients, and findings can be applied to the development and use of adherence-promoting strategies.
