West African journal of medicine
Effect of the BATHE Technique on Quality of Life in Adults with HIV/AIDS in Northern Nigeria
By Ogunyele TT, Grema BA, Haruna AI and 5 others.
Abstract
Background
Advancements in HIV/AIDS treatment have transformed the condition into a manageable chronic disease with improved life expectancy. However, increased survival does not always guarantee better quality of life (QoL). Psychosocial interventions, such as the BATHE technique, offer a structured approach to addressing emotional and social challenges in routine care. This study aims to evaluate the impact of the BATHE technique on the QoL of people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWH), an area with limited empirical evidence, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa.
Methods
This single-blinded randomized controlled trial was conducted on 78 adults PLWH attending the outpatient HIV clinic. The participants were randomized into intervention and control groups. While all participants received standard care, the intervention group received an additional three sessions of the BATHE counselling technique at six-week intervals. Quality of life was evaluated using the WHO Quality of Life Brief (WHOQOL-HIV BREF) instrument, with assessments conducted at baseline and after 18 weeks. Independent t-test, paired t-test, and chi-square test were used for data analysis.