Knowledge and Preference of HIV Testing Types Among Antenatal Women at The University Of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Enugu, Nigeria

Abstract

Context Knowledge of different HIV testing modules is necessary to make an informed consent. The basic conditions of confidentiality, voluntary and counseling (pre-and-post) should apply in all HIV testing. Objective To assess the knowledge and preference of HIV counseling and testing types among antenatal women at the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Enugu, Nigeria. Methodology The study is a descriptive cross-sectional type. A systematic sampling method was used in the sample selection. Pretested interviewer administered questionnaire was used. Results Of the 113 antenatal women studied, 111 (98.2%) and 71 (62.8%) were aware of the existence of HIV testing and different testing types respectively: They were more knowledgeable about voluntary and diagnostic HIV testing, 41(57.8%) each and least knowledgeable about mandatory testing, 26 (36.6%). They had most preference for voluntary HIV testing type, 52(46.0%). Positive attitude to HIV testing was significantly (P<0.001) associated with education and occupation of the respondents. Pre-and-post test counseling difference was statistically significant (P<0.001) Conclusion Awareness of the existence of HIV testing and types of testing were high among the pregnant women. They were knowledgeable about the different HIV testing types. Educational level and occupation significantly affected their knowledge positively. They had most preference for voluntary counseling and testing, but were poorly counseled after testing.

Key words: HIV counseling and testing, antenatal patients, UNTH, Enugu, Nigeria.