Adherence intervention based on constructionist care approach: the health professionals' perspective

Abstract

An individual psychosocial intervention geared to improve adherence to antiretroviral therapy. It was designed based on the concept of Care, on the constructionist perspective and on the vulnerability and human rights framework. This intervention was tested as part of a research project and was conducted by three previously trained health professionals in an STD/AIDS reference health facility in Sao Paulo. These three professionals were interviewed, both individually and as a group in order to assess the intervention's feasibility. We described and discussed the contents addressed by them regarding the following themes: training and supervision activities; intervention conducting; impact on professional practice and user care; and future intervention implementation. The interviewees reported that this intervention caused them to refl ect on their previous practices regarding HIV healthcare. This promoted a better appreciation of the singularity of each user and also more substantial conversations about aspects of the users' daily life concerning their treatment. They considered that the dialogical and horizontal relationship established during the intervention increased users' participation regarding choices concerning paths to self-care. They reported that one of the main diffi culties encountered was related to bonding with some users and highlighted the importance of the fact that the intervention strategies made sense to the people under treatment according to their life circumstances and context. They said they believed in