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Experiences of adolescents using pre-exposure prophylaxis for HIV prevention in Tygerberg sub-district clinics
Author(s)
Nyezi, Chumani
Date Issued
2026
Type
master thesis
Publisher
Cape Peninsula University of Technology
Abstract
Globally, literature has recorded that by the end of 2023, approximately 40.8 million people were living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), and 40.4 million people have died from acquired immunodeficiency syndrome-related complications since the epidemic began. With the highest number of people living with HIV, South Africa also has the highest number of people enrolled in the Antiretroviral therapy programme in the world. Adolescents are especially at increased risk of HIV infection worldwide compared to other age groups. In the City of Cape Town, an initiative started in 2022 of pre-exposure prophylaxis to prevent HIV infection, and it was unclear what the experiences of adolescents using PrEP for HIV prevention were in the Tygerberg subdistrict clinics in the City of Cape Town. The purpose of the study was to understand the experiences of adolescents using Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV prevention in these sub-district clinics to recommend how nurses could support PrEP uptake of adolescents to prevent further new HIV infections. A qualitative research study with an exploratory, descriptive, and contextual design was conducted in clinics within the Tygerberg sub-district. Data were collected through semi-structured, in-depth individual interviews. Purposive sampling was used, and seven interviews were conducted until data saturation was reached. Each interview took place in a private room and lasted approximately 30 to 45 minutes. The data were analysed using thematic analysis. The findings revealed misconceptions about PrEP usage that hindered its implementation among some individuals. Using pre-exposure prophylaxis involves a journey of lifestyle adjustments tailored to individual needs. It requires adapting to everyday life while consistently taking the prophylactic treatment. There is an ongoing need to evaluate PrEP treatment to support health and daily living, particularly for adolescents to maintain adherence. Promoting PrEP calls for a forward-looking approach aligned with existing health regulations and guidelines. The study concludes that these findings could assist nurses providing PrEP services to adolescents in City of Cape Town clinics within the Tygerberg sub-district.
Additional information
Thesis (Master of Nursing Science)--Cape Peninsula University of Technology, 2026
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Chumani_Nyezi_212070983.pdf
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