Han, Jong-Sook;Yoo, Yang-Sook;Han, Hye-Ja;Hwang, Kyung-Hye
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Purpose: This aim of the present study was to assess a newly developed education program for HIV/AIDS counseling nurses. Methods: An education program was developed based on literature reviews, previous project analysis, focus group interview and expert meetings. The program comprised of 3 levels: basic, advanced, and intensive, which included 80, 70, and 60 hours of education, respectively. From May to December in 2012, 17 counseling nurses completed the program and we evaluated their learning achievements, attitudes towards AIDS, confidence in consultation, empathic ability, and training sessions. We also measured the nurses' satisfaction with the program before and after completion. Results: After completing a monthly education program lasting 12-15 hours, the nurses' mean learning achievement was 88.5%, 88.3% and 91.4% out of the basic, advanced, and intensive levels, respectively. Although the nurses' attitudes towards AIDS did not change, their confidence and empathic abilities increased following the basic and intensive components of the programs. Satisfaction with the educational sessions and program operation was 4.23 out of 5.0. Conclusion: This newly developed education program for HIV/AIDS counseling nurses promoted learning achievements as well as, confidence and empathic ability in consultation. HIV/AIDS counseling nurses should receive continuous education opportunities to enhance their potential.