Views of professional nurses regarding the new antiretroviral therapy drug tenofovir, lamivudine and dolutegravir in selected clinics of Limpopo Province

Abstract

Introduction: Tenofovir, Lamivudine and Dolutegravir, also known as TLD drug, is a new fixed dose combination Antiretroviral therapy drug that is taken once daily by individuals living with the Human Immunodeficiency Virus. TLD drug has demonstrated dominance over efavirenz and antiviral drug dependent regimens with greater tolerability, rapid viral load suppression, and a high genetic barrier-resistance. Purpose: The purpose of the study was to explore the views of professional nurses regarding the new Antiretroviral therapy drug TLD in selected clinics in Sekhukhune district, Limpopo Province. Methodology: The study used the qualitative exploratory descriptive design. Permission was obtained from the participants before the study commenced. Fourteen professional nurses participated in the study, and non-probability convenience sampling was used. Riba, Motlolo and Selala clinic were chosen as they are near the mining industry and many of the patients are from the mines. An unstructured interview guide was used as an instrument to provide directions when collecting data and the central question was asked, followed by probing questions. A pre-test using four participants was conducted to evaluate the feasibility of the study. An unstructured interview was conducted to gather information using a voice recorder and field notes until saturation occurred. Tesch’s Open Coding Steps were used to analyze the data. Measures to ensure trustworthiness were followed to ensure the quality of data. Ethics were considered to protect the participants from any harm. Results: According to the findings, professional nurses had favorable opinions of TLD since they had seen it work on variety of patients. TLD drug have more benefits: It is time convenient, can be used in conjunction with other medications, reduced pill burden, quick viral load suppression, suitability of drug to all patients and low resistance build up. Recommendations: The study recommended that the department should provide guidelines and policies to facilities before implementing changes for health providers to be well informed and to conduct workshops for professional nurses to impart knowledge on current changes in treatments. Conclusion: The professional nurses have a positive views regarding TLD drug and support it hundred percent.