ARV success depends upon achieving and maintaining maximum suppression of the virus
Adherence is:
To take always the pills
At the right time
Many studies have shown that even missing one or two doses a week can have a big impact on the chance of successful treatment. Unfortunately, therefore, we must aim at 100% Adherence
Factors affecting Adherence
1) Patient Factors
Knowledge; attitude; unstable social circumstances; support network; state of health; lifestyle; was the disease disclosed? lack of interest; depression;
2) Medication Factors
Side effects; timing of doses; dietary requirements
3) Patient-Health professional relationship
Good communication and interpersonal skills; non-judgemental attitude; open, trusting relationship
4) Health Services
Accessible clinic; pharmacy with no out of stock; experienced, well-trained staff; patient follow-up
What is our role in enhancing patients’ adherence?
All people on ARVs need immense support and encouragement and
nurses have an essential role to play: recognising and understanding difficulties faced by patients, supporting clients and using appropriate interventions to promote adherence
The system will work best if there is one person clearly designated to supervise adherence to medication: in Chaaria is normally Martin.
We must remember that these drugs are not easy!
Patients must feel able to tell us that they are having difficulties or have missed doses.
Only then can we support and assist them
We must listen, empathise and support!
To take always the pills
At the right time
Many studies have shown that even missing one or two doses a week can have a big impact on the chance of successful treatment. Unfortunately, therefore, we must aim at 100% Adherence
Factors affecting Adherence
1) Patient Factors
Knowledge; attitude; unstable social circumstances; support network; state of health; lifestyle; was the disease disclosed? lack of interest; depression;
2) Medication Factors
Side effects; timing of doses; dietary requirements
3) Patient-Health professional relationship
Good communication and interpersonal skills; non-judgemental attitude; open, trusting relationship
4) Health Services
Accessible clinic; pharmacy with no out of stock; experienced, well-trained staff; patient follow-up
What is our role in enhancing patients’ adherence?
All people on ARVs need immense support and encouragement and
nurses have an essential role to play: recognising and understanding difficulties faced by patients, supporting clients and using appropriate interventions to promote adherence
The system will work best if there is one person clearly designated to supervise adherence to medication: in Chaaria is normally Martin.
We must remember that these drugs are not easy!
Patients must feel able to tell us that they are having difficulties or have missed doses.
Only then can we support and assist them
We must listen, empathise and support!
Fr. Beppe
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