The Relationship Between Self-concept and Adherence to Therapeutic Regimens in Patients With Heart Failure

Background and Research Objective: Cardiovascular diseases are the primary cause of death in Iran, and currently, heart failure (HF) has a prevalence of 3500 in 100 000 people. Despite advances in medical treatment for HF, nonadherence to prescribed therapeutic regimen remains as a problem among HF patients. A better understanding of the factors that influence patient adherence to therapeutic regimen may help nurses enhance quality of care in HF patients. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between self-concept cognitive perception (threat and challenge) and adherence to therapeutic regimens in patients with HF in an Iranian population. Subjects and Methods: Using a descriptive correlational design, a convenience sample of 108 HF patients were selected from 2 major medical and academic centers, affiliated with Mashhad University of Medical Sciences in Iran. Two validated and reliable questionnaires including Cognitive Perception of Cardiovascular Healthy Lifestyles and Adherence questionnaires were completed by each patient. Results and Conclusions: A direct relationship between challenge to self-concept and adherence to prescribed regimen was noted (P < .01); threat to self-concept had an inverse relationship to adherence (P < .01). In other words, patients who faced more challenge and less threat to self-concept adhered more to the prescribed therapeutic regimen. Through education and counseling, nurses can empower their patients to perceive HF as a challenge to better adhere to the prescribed therapeutic regimen.