The Process of Adapting to Life with HIV in Greece: A European Research Project

Introduction: This paper outlines a European collaborative research Project between the Nursing Departments of Bournemouth University, of Technological Educational Institute of Athens and of Technological Educational Institute of Crete, which explores the changes that Greek people with HIV experience in their life after diagnosis of HIV. It further attempts to identify how they adapt to those changes and what might help this process. The research network also involves “Andreas Syggros” Hospital of Athens. Aim: The aim of this research Project is to explore the lived experience of adaptation for Greek individuals who have been diagnosed as having HIV. Method: A qualitative interpretative phenomenological research design will be used to interpret experiences as described by the participants, and will also guide data collection and data analysis. Local procedures for gaining ethical approval will be followed. Expected Results and Conclusion: The findings of the study will be used to test and strengthen the Perrett and Biley Negotiating Uncertainty Theory (PB-NUT) and to improve services ensuring they are patient-focused and therefore cost-effective. The Project will also present a theoretical understanding of adaptation to HIV that may assist health professionals in caring effectively for those with HIV and possibly other long term conditions. Finally, the Project will provide an opportunity to develop a solid research network among European and Greek Academic Institutions, regarding HIV and AIDS, with useful results for practice and policy.

Author(s): Francis Biley, Stephanie Perret, Areti Stavropoulou and Theodora Stroubouki

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