Perinatally transmitted HIV infection. Supporting the helpers.

Nurses find that caring for clients with HIV disease can be exceptionally rewarding but can also be stressful and frustrating. Stressors in HIV work arise both from specific issues related to HIV and from more generic concerns arising from caring for clients with a chronic illness in an environment of limited resources. This article describes sources of stress for nurses and personal institutional factors that can lead to burnout as well as positive aspects of HIV nursing. Institutional strategies that can decrease stress and support nurses' practice are described. Group support and individual strategies, including humor and spirituality, offer interventions that can help nurses maintain energy and enthusiasm for nursing practice with HIV clients.