Identifying maternal-related characteristics influencing the retention of HIV-exposed infants in the EID Care Clinic of Nebbi General Hospital. Descriptive cross-sectional study.

Abstract

Background:

All HIV-exposed infants (HEIs) should be retained in early infant diagnosis (EID) programs from birth up to 18–24 months to ensure timely HIV testing, initiation of prophylaxis, and linkage to care if positive. The study aims to identify maternal-related characteristics influencing the retention of HEIs in the EID Care Clinic at Nebbi General Hospital.

 Methods:

 A descriptive cross-sectional quantitative study was conducted among 44 caregivers of HEIs at Nebbi General Hospital using convenience sampling and a semi-structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed descriptively with frequencies, percentages, and charts in Microsoft Excel.

 Results:

 Most respondents (38.6%) were aged 20–29 years, 59.1% had secondary education, 65.9% were married, and 75% were unemployed. 28(63.6%) of the respondents were aware of the importance of HIV testing for their baby, while the minority, 16(36.4%), were not. the highest proportion of mothers, 23 (52.2%), stopped bringing their babies for HIV check-ups due to fear of stigma, while a minority, 10 (22.7%), believed the visits were not important. Regarding disclosure of HIV status, most mothers, 24 (54.5%), had not told anyone about their HIV status, while at least 5 (11.4%) disclosed only to a friend. In terms of adherence to HIV medication, the majority of mothers, 25 (56.8%), reported taking their medication sometimes, while a minimal number, 7 (15.9%), took it rarely. More than half of respondents, 27 (61.4%), often felt too sad or worried to return for their baby’s clinic appointments, while a smaller proportion, 4 (9.1%), rarely experienced such feelings.

 Conclusion:

Maternal issues such as fear of stigma, non-disclosure of HIV status, emotional distress, and irregular ART adherence greatly reduced clinic attendance and continuity of infant follow-up.

 Recommendations:

Encourage male partner involvement to increase social support and improve infant retention.