Peripheral neuropathy, or distal sensory polyneuropathy (DSPN), is the most common neurological problem in HIV disease. DSPN also represents a complex symptom that occurs because of peripheral nerve damage related to advanced HIV disease and in association with the use of antiretroviral therapy-particularly in individuals treated with dideoxynucleosides. Although DSPN is a frequent symptom, the specific pathophysiology is not well understood. The HIV-related neuropathies are commonly categorized as distal sensory polyneuropathies, although antiretroviral toxic neuropathies are described in the literature. Recently, mitochondrial toxicity has been identified as a possible etiology of DSPN. As individuals with HIV/AIDS survive longer, often living for decades with the disease, chronic symptoms like DSPN must be addressed. Pharmacologic approaches, complementary therapies, and self-care behaviors that may improve quality of life and limit symptoms of DSPN are important interventions for clinicians and those living with HIV/AIDS to consider in the management of peripheral neuropathy.

United States demographics are changing, but that change is yet to be recognized in the makeup of the nursing workforce. The underrepresentation of minorities in nursing is a longstanding problem, resulting in missed opportunities for culturally sensitive care that can foster optimal patient care outcomes. This report describes qualitative analysis of leadership opportunities emerging from a collaborative leadership development program between an urban baccalaureate nursing program and a large healthcare system in the northeast United States. The investigative team used qualitative methods to analyze the experiences of 19 participating African American (AA) RN graduates. Findings demonstrated that, for program participants, active engagement in personal and professional nursing leadership activities was enhanced. The academic-practice leadership program was an effective tool for enculturating AA nurses into the practice environment and into eventual leadership in nursing and healthcare.