Orphans and at-risk children in Haiti: vulnerabilities and human rights issues postearthquake

• Published in: Advances in nursing science Vol. 35; no. 2; p. 182
• Main Authors: Nicholas, Patrice K, George, Erin K, Raymond, Nadia, Lewis-OʼConnor, Annie, Victoria, Stephanie, Lucien, Sergeline, Peters-Lewis, Angelleen, Hickey, Nancy, Corless, Inge B, Tyer-Viola, Lynda, Davis, Sheila M, Barry, Donna, Marcelin, Naomie, Valcourt, Roodeline
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States 01.04.2012
• Subjects: Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome - epidemiology; Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome - nursing; Child; Child Health Services - ethics; Child, Orphaned; Disasters; Earthquakes; Haiti - epidemiology; Health Policy; HIV Infections - epidemiology; HIV Infections - nursing; Human Rights; Humans; Nursing Care - organization & administration; Vulnerable Populations; Haiti
• ISSN: 1550-5014
• DOI: 10.1097/ANS.0b013e318253f005

The vulnerability of children in Haiti has increased dramatically since the earthquake in January 2010. Prior to the earthquake, the prevalence of orphans and at-risk children was high but since the earthquake, more than 1 million people-with more than 380,000 children remaining displaced and living in over 1200 displacement sites. These existing conditions leave orphans and at-risk children vulnerable to exploitation, abuse, and increased risk of HIV/AIDS. This article will focus on the complex issues affecting orphans and at-risk children and the intersection with HIV/AIDS and human rights. Specific recommendations by United Nations Children's Fund are discussed. Nursing in Haiti must address the policy-related and population-specific approaches for the care of children living with or affected by HIV/AIDS.