The problem. The purpose of the study was (a) to determine whether fear of contagion is the primary reason for negative emotional reactions and resistance to caring for patients with HIV/AIDS among nurses, and (b) to examine the correlates of fear of contagion, negative emotional reactions, adherence to infection control guidelines, and resistance to taking care of patients with HIV/AIDS.

Method. A multiple regression study was conducted, and 344 registered nurse from a teaching hospital in San Diego participated in the study.

Results. Fear of contagion was the most potent predictor of nurses' reluctance and negative emotional reactions towards HIV/AIDS patients. Homophobia and lack of professional experience with HIV/AIDS patients were secondary factors. Nurses' lack of knowledge of HIV transmission in workplaces appeared to be the most important factor in fear of contagion. Lack of confidence in medical information and personal and professional experiences with HIV/AIDS individuals were associated with their lack of knowledge, resistant behavior, negative emotions and fear of contagion.

Several important demographic variables were associated with nurses' negative attitudes and resistant behavior. White nurses, as compared to nurses from other ethnic groups, were significantly more knowledgeable, had greater confidence in medical information and had more desirable attitudes and behaviors toward HIV/AIDS patients. Asian nurses (mostly Filipinos and particularly those of the Catholic faith), expressed the most homophobia, fear of contagion, and negative emotions and resistance of taking care of HIV/AIDS patients. While Catholic nurses were least knowledgeable, most fearful, and homophobic, nurses who reported having no religious affiliation had the most knowledge, and the least amount of homophobia and fear of contagion.

Both professional and personal experiences were shown to have modifying effects on nurses' perceptions of risk, emotional reactions, and behavior. Generally, a trend of relationships between high-exposure areas and more positive attitudes and behaviors was noted.