Explain in detail the pretest and post-test counseling process for HIV- AIDS counseling.
Answers
Answer:
Explanation:
Taking the HIV test is a very traumatic event. Furthermore, this trauma reaches an extreme condition when the test result (positive or negative) is disclosed. It is therefore essential that the process of HIV testing be accompanied by counselling.
The following is an outline of the requirements, techniques, procedure for pre-test and post-test counselling for people who come to take the HIV test. This program has been developed by Dr. Bitra George at Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi. As this is a successful pilot project funded by NACO and there are plans to duplicate it in other hospitals, the following information may be useful to health care providers (doctors, nursing homes, hospitals) who are already dealing with patients with HIV/AIDS in their work but have not yet been exposed to the extra sensitivity and understanding required when dealing with HIV infections.
If you are living with a person who is susceptible to risky behavior, the following material can help you understand the situation. In most cases, however, you are not equipped to be an effective counsellor as there is a pre-established relationship between you that prevents the other person from accepting your advise. Our best recommendation to you both is to go together to seek the advise of a professional.
For further information, please contact Dr. Bitra George at New OPD Block, Safdarjang Hospital, New Delhi. Telephone: 6198438
QUALITIES NEEDED IN A GOOD COUNSELLOR
# Should have patience
# Should be a good listener, sympathetic and attentive
# Should aim to help and not preach
# The attitude should be unbiased and non-judgemental
# Should be a good communicator. Here the body language, verbal skills, choice of examples, and expression all play an important role
# Ability to reach out to the patient and show empathy
# Ability to draw the patient to you and develop trust
# Willing to admit mistakes
# Willing to learn and search for right answers
# Drawing boundries of limitation both for you and the patient
# Provide accurate information. If you are caught making up "facts" or guessing, you will lose trust and your role as a counsellor to that patient is compromised. (Patients in such situations will often test you, hoping you fail since that makes them feel less low.)