Clinical and psychosocial factors affecting treatment adherence in children with rheumatic heart disease

INTRODUCTIONThe present study aimed to investigate the outcomes of psychiatric symptoms and family functions on treatment adherence in children, in addition to sociodemographic characteristics and clinical factors related to the disease. MATERIAL AND METHODThe research sample consisted of 43 children who were followed up with rheumatic heart disease diagnosis during the study. Clinical features were obtained from the patient files. The family assessment device evaluating family functioning and the strengths and difficulties questionnaire scale to screen emotional and behavioural problems in children were used. RESULTSConsidering the regularity of treatment in our patients, there were 31 (72%) patients adherent to secondary prophylaxis regularly, 7 (6.9%) patients were partially adherent, and 5 (11.6%) patients non-adherent. Patients were divided into treatment adherent (Group 1) and non-adherent (Group 2). There was no statistically significant impact on treatment adherence whether the patients receive enough information, lifestyle, fear of developing adverse effects, fear of addiction, lack of health insurance, difficulties in reaching the drug or hospital. However, the fear of syringes on treatment adherence had an effect statistically significantly (p = 0.047). Forgetting to get a prescription and/or take the drug when the time comes was statistically higher in the non-adherent group (p = 0.009). There was no statistically significant effect of psychosocial factors on treatment adherence between groups. DISCUSSIONProviding an effective active recall system, involving primary care workers, providing training on the disease and its management, and a comprehensive pain management programme can improve the process, especially for cases where secondary prophylaxis is missed.