Abstract

SGNAOLIN, Vanessa  and  FIGUEIREDO, Ana Elizabeth Prado Lima. Adherence to pharmacological treatment in adult patients undergoing hemodialysis. J. Bras. Nefrol. [online]. 2012, vol.34, n.2, pp. 109-116. ISSN 0101-2800.  http://dx.doi.org/10.1590/S0101-28002012000200002.

INTRODUCTION: Adherence to treatment in patients on hemodialysis is not a simple process. Strategies to promote adherence will meet the need for improvements in the process of orientation concerning the disease and its pharmacological treatment. OBJECTIVES: To identify compliance with pharmacological treatment of patients on hemodialysis and the main factors related to it we used the Adherence Scale. METHODS: Observational, descriptive and cross-sectional study. Interviews were conducted to collect socioeconomic, pharmacological data, as well as those regarding self-reported adherence to drug. RESULTS: Out of the 65 participants, 55.4% showed non-compliance. The mean number of drugs used was 4.1 ± 2.5 (self-report) and 6.2 ± 3.0 (prescription). Statistical analysis showed significant differences concerning compliance at different ages (> 60 years are more adherent). CONCLUSIONS: A significant proportion of patients have difficulty to comply with treatment and the main factor was forgetfulness. Regarding age, elderly patients are more adherent to treatment. The low level of knowledge about the used drugs may be one of the reasons for the lack of adherence, and the patient's orientation process by a team of multiprofessionals involved in assisting is a strategy to promote adherence.

Keywords : Medication adherence; Pharmaceutical care; Hemodialysis units, hospital.