Finding peace (Kwam Sa-ngob Jai): a buddhist way to live with HIV.

PURPOSE

This study examines the Buddhist beliefs and practices of Thai HIV-positive postpartum women as ways to live with their infection.

METHOD

Seven HIV-positive postpartum, Buddhist, Thai women were interviewed. Principles of hermeneutic phenomenology guided the study.

FINDINGS

All women in the study practiced spiritual activities based on their understanding of three central Buddhist beliefs: karma, the Five Precepts, and the Four Noble Truths. These beliefs played a major role in helping them to deal with their infection. Meditating, praying, and doing good deeds are examples of spiritual activities they practiced. All participants maintained that their beliefs and practices allowed them to feel peaceful and that their ultimate goal in life is to find peace (Kwam Sa-ngob Jai).

IMPLICATIONS

Understanding patients' spiritual beliefs and practices can help nurses to positively promote better nurse-patient relationships. Nurses should encourage patients' spiritual practices as being grounded in their belief system.