Maternal-related factors influencing retention of HIV-exposed infants in the early infant diagnosis (EID) care clinic at Nebbi General Hospital. A cross-sectional study.

Background: The study aimed to identify maternal-related characteristics influencing the retention of HIV-exposed infants in the EID Care Clinic of Nebbi General Hospital. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study using quantitative methods was conducted at Nebbi General Hospital’s EID clinic to assess factors influencing retention of HIV-exposed infants (HEIs). The study targeted 44 caregivers of HEIs, selected through convenience sampling. Data were collected via a semi-structured questionnaire on socio-demographic and maternal-related factors, after obtaining informed consent. Completed questionnaires were checked, stored securely, and analyzed using Excel for descriptive statistics. Validity and reliability were ensured through supervisor review and pre-testing. Ethical approval was obtained, maintaining confidentiality, anonymity, and voluntary participation throughout the study. Results: Most respondents were aged 20-29 years (17; 38.6%) and 30-39 years (15; 34.1%), while only 5 (11.3%) were 40 years or older. Over half had secondary education (26; 59.1%), 10 (22.7%) had tertiary, and 8 (18.2%) had primary education. Regarding maternal-related factors, 28 (63.6%) were aware of the importance of HIV testing for their babies. Fear of stigma (23; 52.2%) was the main reason for missed appointments. Most mothers (24; 54.5%) had not disclosed their HIV status, 25 (56.8%) sometimes adhered to medication, and 27 (61.4%) often felt too sad or worried to attend follow-ups, affecting retention of HIV-exposed infants in the EID clinic. Conclusion: Maternal issues such as fear of stigma, non-disclosure of HIV status, emotional distress, and irregular ART adherence greatly reduced clinic attendance. Recommendation: The Ministry of Health should strengthen maternal counseling programs to improve mothers’ knowledge of HIV and Early Infant Diagnosis.