RESPECT-2 is a multi-site randomized trial evaluating the effectiveness of two types of HIV prevention counseling among patients seeking examinations in STD clinics. Participants are given either a standard HIV test and two-session counseling, or a rapid HIV test with two sessions of counseling and HIV result compressed into a single visit. Both types of counseling focus on the participant’s risk behaviors, and assist the participant in developing a realistic risk-reduction plan. A computer-assisted self-interview on recent risk behavior is completed at four quarterly follow-up visits. The 3-month interview includes questions customized for each participant, assessing recall of the risk-reduction plan, success at achieving it, and barriers making it difficult to achieve. Of the 639 participants (54% men; mean age 26 years, range 15-39; 43% African American, 27% white, 22% Latino) who have completed the 3-month interview to date, 71% correctly identified their plan. Those who do not correctly identify their plan are then reminded what it is. Most (92%) reported having tried to achieve the plan. Of the 587 participants who tried, 68% reported being somewhat (33%) or very (35%) successful. Of the 398 participants who reported some success, most also felt that their actions were very likely (67%) or likely (25%) to have reduced their risk. The most common barriers making achieving the plan difficult were concern about partner’s reaction (13%), partner unsupportive (9%), participant discomfort (7%), and difficulty remembering the plan (6%). A majority of participants receiving both types of counseling were successful.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant will be able to: 1. Describe the design of the RESPECT-2 HIV prevention counseling study 2. Identify one method of assessing intervention effect 3. Describe the level of success reported by study participants to date 4. Identify three barriers to achieving risk-reduction plans reported by study participants
Keywords: HIV Interventions, Counseling
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.