BACKGROUND: Although faced with serious concerns that need to be addressed, clients are often left aloneas they cope with AIDS. Nurses are sometimes unsure of their ability to help persons who have termi nal illnesses.
OBJECTIVES: The purposes of this research were to provide an example of the development of a nursingapproach by the use of Peplau's interpersonal relations model and to gain a greater understanding of life-and-death issues raised by men and women with HIV and AIDS.
STUDY DESIGN: A qualitative analysis of a man with AIDS was completed by use of Peplau's model. RESULTS: A question, such as "What are your concerns regarding your situation or your disease?" cangreatly encourage clients facing a terminal illness to discuss their concerns. Nurses can assist clients indiscussing their concerns regarding death. Nurses can create trusting relationships with clients andunderstand various issues facing the clients and the interaction process involved. Greater knowledgeand understanding of these issues are gained when looking at three categories of concern: care and disease, life and death, and stereotypes and prejudices.
CONCLUSION: Nurses can make a qualitative difference in the lives of clients with AIDS when they accompany these persons on their journey. Nurses can minimize loneliness and provide professional supportto clients dealing with HIV and AIDS. (J Am Psycbiatr Nurses Assoc [2000]. 6 119-125.)
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