All those involved in maternity care need to be aware of the issues women face when considering HIV and pregnancy. Since the first reported cases of AIDS two decades ago there has been much research into the HIV virus, and attitudes have changed as knowledge has increased. Today, a much better understanding of HIV and related AIDS conditions has enabled the midwife to apply evidence-based guidelines to everyday practice. It is essential that midwives are aware of the most up-to-date research findings so that they can ensure they offer their clients the best possible care during pregnancy and childbirth.
HIV in Pregnancy and Childbirth takes a comprehensive look at the subject in a practical manner, covering epidemiology, transmission, the disease progress and the provision of holistic pregnancy care. Fully referenced with useful appendices and website addresses, this is an essential purchase for all healthcare professionals.
Key Features
An exploration of the latest research into the HIV virus focussing on issues specifically relevant to pregnant women and the newborn
Written by a midwife who specialises in counselling HIV-positive women, this book deals with the issues midwives are most likely to encounter in practice
Discusses the latest findings on breastfeeding and routes of transmission of the virus
Includes guidelines and recommendations for the management of infected healthcare workers
Author Information
By Jane Kennedy, MSc, BSc, RGN, RM, Midwife and HIV Counsellor, St Thomas' Hospital, King's Healthcare Trust, London, UK
1 The Virus
2 Global epidemiology
3 The course of HIV disease
4 Transmission of HIV to mother and child
5 Laboratory testing for HIV infection
6 Testing for HIV infection for the childbearing woman
7 Care during pregnancy, birth and the postnatal period
8 Care of the infant
9 Health care workers and HIV infection
10 Personal perspectives
References
Appendices
Index
""The style of writing is user friendly and the summaries presented at the end of each chapter help the reader understand the subjects tackled and identifies the key issues."" Alice Darkoa Asare-Allotey, Midwifery, June 2004