Enhancing Tuberculosis Treatment Adherence by Tailoring Education to the Patient

Abstract

Each year, people all around the world die from tuberculosis. While the U.S. TB case rate has continued to decline, 1.3 million deaths are attributed to this infectious disease. Cases are in decline due to shorter and better treatment, including observing the patient’s taking of medications called directly observed therapy. Even with the advances in treatment, non-adherence and completion of tuberculosis treatment are common, the U.S. included. There are many different reasons why patients do not complete treatment in a timely manner or at all. One of the reasons is the lack of appropriate education regarding tuberculosis treatment, the disease, and medications. Michel’s Uncertainty in Illness Theory and scale will be used during the patient’s visit to assess their knowledge of their current situation and devise individualized education, which the nurse will provide. Based on the survey response and directly observed therapy, treatment adherence, and timely completion will be evaluated. Additionally, treatment adherence and completion are examined in the background of the Triple Aim.