Journal of advanced nursing
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This paper is derived from the findings of a larger study which examines nurses' and doctors' attitudes towards mainstreaming of hospital inpatient services for individuals with HIV/AIDS in general hospital wards. The aim of this paper is to discuss the factors which influence nurses' and doctors' willingness to provide care and treatment for patients with HIV/AIDS. ⋯ The findings of this study provide several themes about the positive attributes associated with caring for and treating patients with HIV/AIDS. These include: that caring for and treating is personally and professionally rewarding; the need to be non-judgemental and accepting of others; that previous work or social experience is related to willingness to work with patients; the influence of family and colleague support in the work environment; and having a duty of care.