A Manual for Working with People with HIV/AIDS

Abstract

This training package, which takes the form of a ring-bound book, aims to provide a basic introduction to HIV and AIDS for occupational therapy students and clinicians. The authors are all occupational therapists. It is advised in the foreword that, as a basic guide, the book may not cover all the issues, but it is a starting point. The book fulfils i ts aims admirably and provides clear comprehensive information about HIV and AIDS, both from medical and psychological perspectives. Th i s information, though aimed at occupational therapists, is relevant to all clinicians, patients and carers seeking an introduction to the subject of HIV/AIDS. The first section of the book covers the immune system and how i t is affected by the HIV virus, the main opportunistic infections, transmission and testing. The second section explores specific illnesses and their medical treatments. Complementary therapy and palliative care are included in this section. The information on disease manifestations and treatment is good, but because it is medically biased, i t does not elaborate on the areas where occupational therapy or physiotherapy may be involved. Other sections of the book contain quizzes and exercises for trainers to explore their knowledge and prejudices, as well as a fairly in-depth look a t bereavement. Occupational therapy input is covered in one section that includes case studies for discussion. It is disappointing that physiotherapy is not mentioned in this chapter (or in any other) despite reference to the physical limitations of HIV/AIDS patients. Aromatherapy, massage and osteopathy are all discussed elsewhere, and I feel it would have been appropriate to mention physiotherapy as part of the rehabilitation and multidisciplinary care of these patients. However, this may reflect the relatively new involvement of physiotherapy in the care of HIV/AIDS patients in some locations. The last section contains some useful references and national resources. The book is well laid out and provides clear basic information which is of value to all those wishing to gain some understanding of HIV/AIDS. It would be particularly valuable to students and tutors wishing to facilitate discussion on this subject. For physiotherapists already working in this area, the book is unlikely to provide new information, but it is a useful reference and teaching tool.