NECU, NSACS hold seminar on nurses’ role in HIV treatment adherence

Dimapur, October 16 (MExN): The Faculty of Nursing, North East Christian University (NECU), Dimapur, in collaboration with the Nagaland State AIDS Control Society (NSACS), organised a one-day state-level e-seminar on “Frontline Excellence: The Nurse’s Role in Optimizing Viral Suppression and Adherence” on October 15.The seminar, held from 8 am to 4 pm, was attended by 200 delegates and aimed to strengthen nursing professionals’ knowledge of antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence, viral suppression and ways to improve the quality of life of people living with HIV.According to a press release, the seminar featured Dr Hotoka Hesso, Senior Medical Officer at the Model ART Plus Centre, District Hospital, Dimapur, and Bendangtemsula, Nurse Counsellor at the Integrated Counselling and Testing Centre (ICTC), Christian Institute of Health Sciences and Research (CIHSR), 4th Mile, Chümoukedima.The programme was coordinated by the Faculty of Nursing, NECU, under the guidance of Kapuw Kaini, P.B.B.Sc. Nursing Tutor and Organising Chairperson; Rovino Khate, M.Sc. Nursing Tutor and Organising Secretary; and Imliwapangla Ao, B.Sc. Nursing Tutor and Assistant Organising Secretary.The programme began with a welcome address and introductory remarks by Kaini, who introduced the seminar theme and highlighted the importance of clinical updates, viral suppression and nursing strategies to support treatment adherence. A pre-test followed.Hesso conducted sessions on “Understanding Viral Suppression” and “U=U: Undetectable = Untransmittable”, explaining the role of ART in reducing viral load, maintaining the health of people living with HIV and preventing HIV transmission when viral suppression is sustained. The sessions highlighted the importance of regular viral-load monitoring, consistent medication adherence, continuous follow-up and appropriate counselling.Bendangtemsula led a session on “The Nurse’s Role in Medication Adherence”, discussing barriers such as stigma, discrimination, forgetfulness, fear of disclosure, medication-related side effects, financial difficulties and challenges in accessing healthcare services.She also outlined practical nursing interventions, including adherence counselling, patient education, reminder strategies, follow-up appointments and family support where appropriate, emphasising confidential, compassionate and non-judgmental care.Hesso subsequently addressed “Practical Strategies for Long-Term Adherence”, focusing on individualised counselling, patient education, regular follow-up and continuous monitoring to sustain ART adherence.Bendangtemsula also led an interactive case discussion in which participants analysed a clinical scenario, identified potential barriers to adherence and discussed appropriate assessments and nursing interventions.In another session, Hesso spoke on “Managing Drug Interactions”, highlighting medication safety, the recognition of potential drug interactions and the need for appropriate clinical assessment and referral. Bendangtemsula’s session on “Updating Clinical Protocols and Nursing Practice” emphasised evidence-based care, updated clinical guidance and the integration of current knowledge into nursing practice.The programme concluded with a post-test and feedback session to assess participants’ understanding and gather suggestions for future programmes. Certificates were distributed after attendance was verified and feedback was submitted.The seminar emphasised the role of nurses in promoting ART adherence, reducing barriers to care, supporting people living with HIV and improving health outcomes through evidence-based, patient-centred practice.