Humanized care for patients with human immunodeficiency virus: challenges, impacts and strategies

Abstract

The care of people living with human immunodeficiency virus continued to face barriers related to stigma, discrimination, and limited consideration of their emotional and social needs. The objective was to describe the care provided in healthcare services to people living with human immunodeficiency virus from a humanized perspective. A literature review with a qualitative approach and descriptive scope was conducted. A total of 150 documents were identified in academic databases and, after applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, 30 original articles published since 2020 in Spanish, English, and Portuguese were selected. The information was organized in a documentary matrix and analyzed using an inductive procedure. The findings were grouped into three areas: characteristics of humanized care, challenges encountered during care, and impacts attributed to these practices. The reviewed literature associated respectful treatment, empathy, active listening, communication, and the absence of prejudice with a better care experience, emotional well-being, and treatment adherence. Barriers related to stigma, discrimination, confidentiality, and fragmented care persisted. It was concluded that humanized care requires the integration of the physical, emotional, and social dimensions of the person.