Ignorance: the interpretation of the lived experiences of AIDS patients

Introduction: The aim of this paper was to examine the lived experiences of AIDS patients of Kermanshah with ignorance in 1394. Conceptual and theoretical foundations of this study was inspired by the teachings of Alfred Chatham about information poverty.

Methods: In this study an interpretative phenomenological approach was employed.  Forty-four patients with AIDS, including 20 males and 24 females were interviewed. Samples used in this study were based on purposive sampling. In-depth interviews were used to collect the required data. The validity and reliability of the study were checked using 1- Confirmability, 2-‌Credibility, 3-‌Dependability, and ‌4-‌Transferability.‌‌ The researcher has conducted in-depth interviews with AIDS patients for a period of 6 months. The data analysis were conducted based on Diekelmann.

Results: The results of this study showed that the concept of ignorance comprising of the sub-themes: devastating select, insufficiency of information, high risk behavior experience and feeling of being a victim were the most common among AIDS patients in Kermanshah.

Conclusion: The sole weapon in the fight against the epidemic of AIDS that can help our community is moving toward education and awareness among different groups of the society.