AIDS and sexuality education in the physiotherapy curriculum

Abstract

The need for physiotherapy in the multidisciplinary management of patients with AIDS is generally acknowledged. Physiotherapists should understand the disease, and develop appropriate attitudes towards individuals with AIDS. Data obtained from questionnaires completed at the University of the Western Cape by prospective physiotherapy students between 1991 and 1993 on knowledge of and attitudes about AIDS, were analysed. The same questionnaire was re- administered to a group of physiotherapy students completing their fourth-year of study. Although most of the students indicated accurate knowledge about AIDS, their attitudes were uncertain. Students expressed anxiety about contact with persons with AIDS. The findings suggest the need for the inclusion of AIDS education in the physiotherapy education curriculum at the University of the Western Cape.