Since 2006 there has been universal acceptance in both developing and industrialized societies that HIV
treatment and related services, including more effective programs, be available to all citizens. However,
as a result of the worldwide recession and shifting health priorities, progress toward these goals has
stalled. While the epidemic continues to grow (approximately 34 million globally, with 2.7 million new
cases in 2010), fewer resources are dedicated to treatment and prevention than previously, and clinical
staffs, especially nurses are challenged by more patient care responsibilities. This paper focuses on the
relationships of HIV/AIDS care, coping strategies and work environmental stress for nurses working in
an African country (Botswana) with a significant epidemic. Data for this study was obtained through
questionnaires completed by a sample of 201 nurses working in different types of health facilities in
rural and urban areas of Botswana. Results show that 65% of the nurses frequently provided care to
clients with HIV/AIDS. Only 35% of the nurses provided care to clients with HIV/AIDS infrequently.
Those caregivers who often worked with patients infected with HIV reported significantly (p<.05) more
"role demand", "job control" and "shift work" stress and said that their coping strategies were more
likely to include taking food supplements. Implications for professional "burn out" among HIV/AIDS
caregivers in developing societies are discussed together with strategies for more effective allocations
of health care personnel.