Prevalence and Related Factors of Ineffective Self-Health Management in Polymedicated Patients Over the Age of 65 Years

Int J Nurs Knowl. 2018 Apr;29(2):133-142. doi: 10.1111/2047-3095.12155. Epub 2016 Sep 21.

Abstract

Purpose: To determine the prevalence of Ineffective Self-Health Management (ISHM) (00078) and its related factors in polymedicated patients over the age of 65 years.

Methods: A cross-sectional, descriptive design was used. A home interview was conducted with each participant (N = 375) for data collection.

Findings: The prevalence of ISHM was 37.3%. The risk factors associated were social risk, depression, noncompliance, medication errors, and confusion with medications.

Conclusions: Among polymedicated elderly patients, the prevalence of ISHM is high. The diagnosis is closely connected to the compliance and complexity of the treatment regimen, in addition to those relating strictly to social and emotional factors.

Implications: Nursing methodology encompasses instruments that allow nurses in clinical practice to evaluate the issue of compliance.

Keywords: Aged patient; Ineffective Self-Health Management; medication therapy management; nursing; polypharmacy.

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Polypharmacy*
  • Prevalence
  • Risk Factors
  • Self-Management*