| 英文摘要 |
Background and Objectives: The mortality related to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) has been increasing worldwide. To ensure the effective use medical resources, it is important to understand the medication habits of patients with COPD. The purpose of this study was to assess the medication adherence of patients with COPD in Chia-Nan Area, Taiwan, and to identify factors influencing the same. Findings of this study may contribute to health education regarding medication strategies. Methods: This cross-sectional, correlational study included 79 patients with COPD, aged 40 years or more. Patients were interviewed during home visits, using a structured questionnaire. The factors affecting medication adherence in patients with COPD were assessed using a multiple regression analysis. Results: While 86.1% of the participants reported that they adhered to medication, on an average of once a week, they did not adhere to medication. They exhibited a low level of awareness regarding COPD and medication (mean correct answer rate = 35.9%). There were no significant differences in the medication adherence in terms of age, gender, education, whether or not assistance was needed during medication, or smoking. However, medication adherence was negatively associated with co-morbidity and positively correlated to disease perception and the total number of medicines consumed, and these variables explained 25% of the variance. Conclusions: To enhance COPD patients adherence to medication, it is necessary to improve their awareness of disease processes, medications, co-morbidity, and to simplify the complex prescription regimen and number of medicines prescribed. |
