HIV & Aids Culture HIV & Aids Culture By: Julie R. & Haley B.

Religion The main religion that is dominant with Aids is Islamic. The main religion in Africa is Islamic, which many cases are found in that country.

Ethnicity and Religion Continued HIV AIDS is a disease found world wide, however Swaziland, South Africa with 25.9% adults is the highest ranked country. Ethnic groups: Swaziland constitutes 97% of the total populace and comprises more than 70 clans, of which the Nkosi Dlamini, the royal clan, is dominant. Europeans make up the remaining 3%. Race: Black Language: English and Siswati, which is spoken by almost all Swazi Religion: A majority of Swazis are registered as "Christian.“

Aids Across The World

Medical Practices HIV infection causes AIDS to develop. However, it is possible to be infected with HIV without developing AIDS. Without treatment, the HIV infection is allowed to progress and eventually it will develop into AIDS in the vast majority of cases. There are many types of treatment plans for HIV & Aids. One example is Antiretroviral drugs. HIV is treated with antiretroviral (ARVs). The treatment fights the HIV infection and slows down the spread of the virus in the body. Generally, patients take a combination of medications called HAART (highly active antiretroviral therapy). These treatments are typically lifelong.

Personal Space- Touch- Eye Contact- Gestures & Clothing When working with a patient with Aids don’t be afraid to touch or make contact with them. As long as you wear PPE you have nothing to be worried about. Being touched is comforting for the patients it shows that you are not afraid of them. Without touch, there is less reinforcement, less comfort, less love. Because so many people are afraid of touching them, people with AIDS miss out on this ordinary physical contact. Hugging and shaking hands are completely safe and can make a huge difference in the life of someone with AIDS.

Food and Dietary Considerations The diet should include each of the five major food groups (dairy, vegetable, meat, fruit, and bread) Certain foods cause nausea to HIV & Aids patients so beware of your patients needs. People infected with HIV & Aids typically lose there appetite, so giving them smaller meals throughout the day is helpful.