Training needs and evaluation of a neuro-HIV training module for non-physician healthcare workers in Western Kenya

Abstract

Background: Recent efforts to improve neurological care in resource-limited settings have focused on providing training to non-physician healthcare workers. Methods: A one-day neuro-HIV training module emphasizing HIV-associated dementia (HAD) and peripheral neuropathy was provided to 71 health care workers in western Kenya. Pre- and post-tests were administered to 55 participants. Results: Mean age of participants was 29 years, 53% were clinical officers and 40% were nurses. Self-reported comfort was significantly higher for treating medical versus neurologic conditions (p<O.OOl). After training, participants identified more neuropathy etiologies (pre = 5.6/9 possible correct etiologies; post = 8.0/9; p<O.OOl). Only 4% of participants at baseline and 6% (p=031) post-training could correctly identify HAD diagnostic criteria, though there were fewer mis-identified criteria such as abnormal level of consciousness (pre =82%; post=43%; p<O.OOl) and hallucinations (pre = 57%; post = 15%; p<O.OOl). Conclusions: Healthcare workers were more comfortable treating medical than neurological conditions. This training significantly improved knowledge about etiologies of neuropathy and decreased some mis¬conceptions about HAD.