Prevalence and correlates of medication non-adherence among kidney transplant recipients more than 6 months post-transplant: a cross-sectional study. BMC Nephrol. 2013;14:261. [PMID: 24289809 PMCID: PMC4219432 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2369-14-261]

International Variability of Barriers to Adherence to Immunosuppressive Medication in Adult Heart Transplant Recipients. A Secondary Data Analysis of the BRIGHT Study

Non-adherence to immunosuppressive medication among transplant patients is associated with poor clinical outcomes and higher economic costs. Barriers to immunosuppressives are a proximal determinant of non-adherence. So far, international variability of barriers to adherence in transplantation has not been studied. As part of the cross-sectional multi-country and multi-center BRIGHT study, barriers to adherence were measured in 1,382 adult heart transplant recipients of 11 countries using the 28-item self-report questionnaire "Identifying Medication Adherence Barriers" (IMAB). Barriers were ranked by their frequency of occurrence for the total sample and by country. Countries were also ranked the by recipients' total number of barriers. Intra-class correlations were calculated at country and center level. The five most frequently mentioned barriers were sleepiness (27.1%), being away from home (25.2%), forgetfulness (24.5%), interruptions to daily routine (23.6%) and being busy (22.8%), fairly consistently across countries. The participants reported on average three barriers, ranging from zero up to 22 barriers. The majority of the variability among reported barriers frequency was situated at the recipient level (94.8%). We found limited international variability in primarily person-level barriers in our study. Understanding of barriers in variable contexts guides intervention development to support adherence to the immunosuppressive regimen in real-world settings.

Is Health Literacy Associated With Surgical Outcomes? A Systematic Review

INTRODUCTION

Low levels of health literacy have been shown to increase healthcare utilization and negatively affect health outcomes within medical specialties. However, the relationship of health literacy with clinical, patient-centered, and process-oriented surgical outcomes is not as well understood.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We sought to systematically review the current evidence base regarding the relationship between health literacy and a range of outcomes in patients experiencing surgical care. Following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, we searched six databases and then identified and extracted data from 25 cross-sectional or cohort studies deemed eligible for a systematic review.

RESULTS

Among included studies, strong evidence exists to support an association between low health literacy and worse patient-centered outcomes, as well as an association between low health literacy and poorer process-oriented surgical outcomes. However, the relationship between health literacy and clinical outcomes remains unclear.

CONCLUSIONS

Substantial opportunities remain to improve our understanding of the impact of health literacy on surgical outcomes. Future work should expand the range of institutional and specialized surgical settings studied, implement a standardized set of validated health literacy assessment tools, include more diverse patient populations, and investigate a comprehensive range of patient-reported outcomes.

COVID-19 Vaccination Status and Operative Outcomes after Kidney Transplantation

BACKGROUND

Kidney transplantation remains the best available treatment for end-stage renal disease. However, promoting graft longevity and preventing allosensitization requires strict adherence with a stringent immunosuppression regimen. The COVID-19 pandemic has offered new challenges for kidney transplant patients and many transplant centers are denying transplantation to unvaccinated patients. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether unvaccinated patients had inferior adherence after kidney transplantation along with a reduction in graft survival.

STUDY DESIGN

Patients undergoing a deceased donor kidney transplantation at a single academic medical center from February 2021 to May 2022 were retrospectively reviewed. February 2021 was chosen as the start date for record review because it was 3 months after the first COVID-19 vaccination was authorized for emergency use. Patients were considered to be vaccinated if they received at least 1 dose of any mRNA vaccine by their transplantation date.

RESULTS

Of the 301 patients who met study criteria, 234 were vaccinated and 67 were unvaccinated. Cohorts stratified by vaccination status were well matched. Younger age was an independent risk factor for nonvaccination. Interestingly, unvaccinated patients had worse postoperative adherence with a greater average number of missed postoperative clinic visits (p = 0.03) and a strong trend toward missing 3 or more postoperative clinic visits (p = 0.07). Finally, unvaccinated patients had statistically more subtherapeutic tacrolimus troughs (p = 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients not vaccinated against COVID-19 had higher rate of postoperative nonadherence in key areas of immunosuppression monitoring and clinic visit attendance. Providers should be cognizant that an unvaccinated status may be a harbinger for poor adherence; therefore, stricter strategies for patient outreach are critical to ensure graft success in this vulnerable patient population.

Associations of health literacy with self-management behaviours and health outcomes in chronic kidney disease: a systematic review

INTRODUCTION

Low health literacy is widely reported in people with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and has been associated with reduced disease self-management, poor health outcomes, increased mortality and poorer quality of life. However, these associations are still not well understood.

METHODS

Electronic-based systematic searches were performed to identify studies examining associations between health literacy and self-management behaviours and/or health outcomes in patients with CKD. A tabular and narrative synthesis of the data was performed. Meta-analysis was not appropriate due to the heterogeneity of study designs and methods.

RESULTS

Searches identified 48 studies that met the inclusion criteria. A total of 41 published articles, six conference abstracts, and one thesis were included. Of the 48 studies, 11 were cohort and 37 were cross-sectional. In total there were 25,671 patients; 16,952 from cohort studies. Median study sample size was 159 (IQR 92-275). Study quality was high (5), moderate (24) and poor (19). Thirteen measures of health literacy were used. Despite the limitations of the available evidence, there appear to be consistent relationships between higher health literacy and favourable self-management behaviours for patients with CKD. Definitive relationships between health literacy and patient outcomes are far less clear and remain incompletely understood.

DISCUSSION

Conclusive evidence describing a causal link between health literacy and patient outcomes remains limited, but for many outcomes, a consistent association is described. In addition to associations with mortality, hospitalisation and clinical events, there were consistent associations between health literacy and favourable self-management behaviours which could support the development of patient education aimed at improving health literacy.

Sickness Symptoms in Kidney Transplant Recipients: A Scoping Review

Sickness symptoms (depressive symptoms, anxiety, and fatigue) are common among people with chronic illness, often presenting as a symptom cluster. Sickness symptoms persist in many patients with chronic kidney disease, even after kidney transplantation (KT); however, little is known about sickness symptom-induced burden in KT recipients. This scoping review synthesizes available evidence for sickness symptoms in KT recipients, including findings on symptom prevalence, predictors, outcomes, interrelationships, and clustering. Among 38 reviewed studies, none identified sickness symptoms as a cluster, but we observed interrelationships among the symptoms examined. Fatigue was the most prevalent sickness symptom, followed by anxiety and depressive symptoms. Predictors of these symptoms included demographic, clinical, and psychosocial factors, and health-related quality of life was the most researched outcome. Future research should use common data elements to phenotype sickness symptoms, include biological markers, and employ sophisticated statistical methods to identify potential clustering of sickness symptoms in KT recipients.

Cost-Effectiveness Analysis: Personal Systems Approach in Improving Medication Adherence in Adult Kidney Transplant Patients

ABSTRACT

Interventions to improve medication nonadherence in transplantation have recently moved from a focus on motivation and intention, to a focus on person-level quality improvement strategies. These strategies link adherence to established daily routines, environmental cues, and supportive people. The objective of this evaluation was to estimate the cost of implementation and the cost-effectiveness of a person-level intervention shown to increase medication adherence. To estimate the intervention costs, a direct measure microcosting approach was used after key informant interviews with project champions and a review of implementation expenditures. Cost-effectiveness was calculated by comparing the incremental implementation costs and healthcare costs associated with nonadherence to the incremental percent adherent, defined as the percent of patients who took greater or equal to 85% of their medication doses, for each pairwise comparison. The intervention was low-resource to implement, costing approximately $520 to implement per patient, and was associated with significant improvements in medication adherence. These implementation costs were more than outweighed by the expected healthcare savings associated with improvements in adherence. This person-level intervention is a low-cost, efficacious intervention associated with significant statistical and clinical improvements in medication adherence in adult kidney transplant recipients.

Health Facts Medication Adherence in Transplantation (H-MAT) Study: A Secondary Analysis of Determinants and Outcomes of Medication Nonadherence in Adult Kidney Transplant Recipients

Aims

To explore the relationship between determinants and posttransplant medication nonadherence (MNA) in adult kidney transplant recipients, and to examine the relationship between posttransplant MNA and clinical outcomes.

Methods

Using the World Health Organization's model, this retrospective, multicenter, correlational study examined the relationship between determinants, posttransplant MNA, and clinical outcomes in 16,671 adult kidney transplant recipients from the Cerner Health Facts national data warehouse.

Results

With 12% MNA, those who were nonadherent were more likely to have the social/economic factors of being younger, single, Caucasian versus Hispanic race, have the condition-related factor of mental health/substance use disorder, and have the healthcare system-related factor of government/health maintenance organization/managed care insurance (p′s < 0.05). Bivariate correlations indicated both age (OR = 1.006, p=0.01) and mental health or substance use disorder diagnosis (OR = 1.26, p=0.04) were significant predictors of MNA. Patients were 0.6% more likely to be medication adherent for each year they increased in age and 26% more likely to be MNA if they were diagnosed with a mental health/substance use disorder. Nonadherent patients were less likely to be readmitted, but more likely to have complications after transplant and medication side effects (p′s < 0.01).

Conclusions

Using one of the largest samples of adult kidney transplant patients, our findings support the WHO model and move the body of medication adherence intervention research forward by clarifying the importance of focusing interventions not only on the patient but on multilevel determinants. Consistent with previous studies, MNA negatively impacts transplant outcomes.

Exploration of Adherence to the Immunosuppressive Medication in Kidney Transplant Recipients Based on Theory of Planned Behavior

To investigate adherence to immunosuppressive medication (IM) in kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) and analyze the associated factors using the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB). Data were collected at Time1 (T1) and 3 months later (T2). T1: the elements of the TPB, past behavior, beliefs about medicines, perceived social support were measured. T2: IM adherence was measured. Structural equation modeling was applied to analyze the associated factors of medication adherence. A total of 246 KTRs were included. The average IM adherence score of KTRs' was 4.86 (SD = 1.63). Of the recipients, 39.43% had one aspect of non-adherence to IM. The model could explain 28.7% of the variance in adherence to IM (R² = .287, p = .006). TPB is a useful tool for understanding adherence to IM in KTRs. Caregivers can provide effective interventions during follow-up, which should focus on improving medication beliefs as well as provision of other external support especially from outside.

The Association between Psychosocial and Age-Related Factors with Adherence to Immunosuppressive Therapies after Renal Transplantation

Renal transplantation (RT) is the optimal renal replacement treatment approach in terms of patient survival and high quality of life. Proper adherence to medication is essential in order to prolong graft life and patient survival. This study aimed to investigate the effects of psychosocial factors and age-related declines on adherence in kidney transplant recipients. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study of kidney transplant recipients, based on regression analysis. Patient adherence was assessed with the Basel Assessment of Adherence with Immunosuppressive Medication Scale (BAASIS). Psychosocial and age-related variables were measured with the World Health Organization’s quality of life questionnaire (WHOQoL-BREF), the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), the Acceptance of Illness Scale (AIS), and the Tilburg Frailty Indicator (TFI). Results: A simple linear regression model indicated that the significant predictors of self-reported adherence (p < 0.05) were age, time since transplant, and anxiety and cognitive functions. For problems with implementing immunosuppressive medication, logistic regression models showed that gender, age, retirement status, hypercholesterolemia, and cognitive impairment were the most significant predictors (p < 0.05). However, after controlling for other predictors in the multiple regression models, anxiety and cognitive ability no longer predicted treatment adherence to immunosuppressive medication. Conclusions: Renal transplantation is the most effective therapy in chronic renal failure patients. Proper adherence to immunosuppressive therapy is critical to prolonging graft and person survival. Our study shows that occupational status more significantly influences adherence to the implementation of treatment in kidney transplant recipients.

Prediction Model of Immunosuppressive Medication Non-adherence for Renal Transplant Patients Based on Machine Learning Technology

Objectives

Predicting adherence to immunosuppressive medication (IM) is important to improve and design future prospective, personalized interventions in Chinese renal transplant patients (RTPs).

Methods

A retrospective, multicenter, cross-sectional study was performed in 1,191 RTPs from October 2020 to February 2021 in China. The BAASIS was used as the standard to determine the adherence of the patients. Variables of the combined theory, including the general data, the HBM, the TPB, the BMQ, the PSSS and the GSES, were used to build the models. The machine learning (ML) models included LR, RF, MLP, SVM, and XG Boost. The SHAP method was used to evaluate the contribution of predictors to predicting the risk of IM non-adherence in RTPs.

Results

The IM non-adherence rate in the derivation cohort was 38.5%. Ten predictors were screened to build the model based on the database. The SVM model performed better among the five models, with sensitivity of 0.59, specificity of 0.73, and average AUC of 0.75. The SHAP analysis showed that age, marital status, HBM-perceived barriers, use pill box after transplantation, and PSSS-family support were the most important predictors in the prediction model. All of the models had good performance validated by external data.

Conclusions

The IM non-adherence rate of RTPs was high, and it is important to improve IM adherence. The model developed by ML technology could identify high-risk patients and provide a basis for the development of relevant improvement measures.

Medication, Healthcare Follow-up, and Lifestyle Nonadherence: Do They Share the Same Risk Factors?

Barriers to medication adherence may differ from barriers in other domains of adherence. In this study, we assessed the association between pre-kidney transplantation (KT) factors with nonadherent behaviors in 3 different domains post-KT.

METHODS

We conducted a prospective cohort study with patient interviews at initial KT evaluation (baseline-nonadherence predictors in sociodemographic, condition-related, health system, and patient-related psychosocial factors) and at ≈6 mo post-KT (adherence outcomes: medications, healthcare follow-up, and lifestyle behavior). All patients who underwent KT at our institution and had ≈6-mo follow-up interview were included in the study. We assessed nonadherence in 3 different domains using continuous composite measures derived from the Health Habit Survey. We built multiple linear and logistic regression models, adjusting for baseline characteristics, to predict adherence outcomes.

RESULTS

We included 173 participants. Black race (mean difference in adherence score: -0.72; 95% confidence interval [CI], -1.12 to -0.32) and higher income (mean difference: -0.34; 95% CI, -0.67 to -0.02) predicted lower medication adherence. Experience of racial discrimination predicted lower adherence (odds ratio, 0.31; 95% CI, 0.12-0.76) and having internal locus of control predicted better adherence (odds ratio, 1.46; 95% CI, 1.06-2.03) to healthcare follow-up. In the lifestyle domain, higher education (mean difference: 0.75; 95% CI, 0.21-1.29) and lower body mass index (mean difference: -0.08; 95% CI, -0.13 to -0.03) predicted better adherence to dietary recommendations, but no risk factors predicted exercise adherence.

CONCLUSIONS

Different nonadherence behaviors may stem from different motivation and risk factors (eg, clinic nonattendance due to experiencing racial discrimination). Thus adherence intervention should be individualized to target at-risk population (eg, bias reduction training for medical staff to improve patient adherence to clinic visit).

Immunosuppressive Medication Adherence in Kidney Transplant Recipients During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Study in Hong Kong

BACKGROUND

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has put an enormous burden on health care systems worldwide. Limited access to medical care and fear of increased infective risks due to the use of immunosuppressive medication (IM) have increased concerns about IM adherence in kidney transplant recipients (KTRs). The aim of this study was to determine the various dimensions of IM nonadherence in KTRs during the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS

This was a single-center, cross-sectional study using a convenient sampling approach. KTRs with follow-up in Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Hong Kong between May 1, 2020 and September 30, 2020, were invited to complete a self-reported questionnaire on IM adherence. The sociodemographic factors associated with IM adherence were extracted from medical records.

RESULTS

Overall, 210 patients completed the questionnaires. The overall IM nonadherence rate was 35.2% in the 4 weeks before survey completion. None of the patients stopped taking IMs without instructions from their health care providers. The most common pattern of IM nonadherence was timing adherence (n = 63; 30.1%), followed by dose-skipping item. Among the different sociodemographic factors studied, only marital status was an independent risk factor of IM nonadherence (odds ratio, 1.97; 95% confidence interval, 1.04-3.72; P = .03).

CONCLUSIONS

The impact of COVID-19 on IM adherence in KTRs was not significant. All the patients continued their IM despite of the pandemic. Good family support can have a positive influence on treatment adherence in KTRs during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The relation between psychological distress and medication adherence in lung transplant candidates and recipients: A cross-sectional study

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

To explore the prevalence of psychological distress such as anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder and its associations with medication adherence in lung transplant patients.

BACKGROUND

Psychological distress after lung transplantation may impact clinical outcomes by associated behaviours such as non-adherence to medication. Evidence about the relation between psychological distress and medication adherence in lung transplant patients is limited and not well explained.

DESIGN AND METHODS

We conducted a single-centre study with a cross-sectional design in 73 lung transplant candidates and 116 recipients. Questionnaires were the Brief Symptom Inventory, Impact of Event Scale and Basel Assessment of Adherence to Immunosuppressive Medications Scale. The STROBE checklist was monitored.

RESULTS

In candidates, 39.7% reported (sub)clinical symptoms of depression, in recipients this was 21.6%. We observed suicidal ideation in recipients (8.6%), and candidates (5.5%). The prevalence of (sub)clinical symptoms of anxiety was 38.3% in candidates and 33.7% in recipients. After lung transplantation, 12% of the recipients reported clinical symptoms of PTSD related to the transplantation. Symptoms of anxiety and medication adherence were significantly and positively related in transplant recipients. We found no association between depressive or post-traumatic stress symptoms, and medication adherence.

CONCLUSIONS

In lung transplant patients, we found a high prevalence of symptoms of depression and anxiety. Recipients had high levels of post-traumatic stress symptoms related to the transplantation. The prevalence of suicidal ideation was unexpectedly high in recipients. After lung transplantation, higher levels of anxiety were related to better medication adherence. We propose that LTX recipients are very anxious to develop dyspnoea and therefore take their medication more conscientiously.

RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE

The clinical nurse specialist can play a key role in identifying and addressing psychological and behavioural problems. More prospective research on the role of anxiety and dyspnoea in lung transplant recipients is recommended.

Association Between Donor-Recipient Biological Relationship and Allograft Outcomes After Living Donor Kidney Transplant

IMPORTANCE

The proportion of living donor kidney transplants from donors unrelated to their recipients is increasing in the US.

OBJECTIVE

To examine the association between donor-recipient biological relationship and allograft survival after living donor kidney transplant.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

This retrospective cohort study used Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network data on US adult living donor kidney transplants (n = 86 154) performed from January 1, 2000, to December 31, 2014, excluding cases in which recipients previously received a kidney transplant (n = 10 342) or key data were missing (n = 2832). Last follow-up was March 20, 2020.

EXPOSURES

Donor-recipient biological relationship.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

The primary outcome was death-censored allograft failure. Univariate and multivariable time-to-event analyses were performed for death-censored allograft failure for the overall cohort, then separately for recipients with and without primary diagnoses of cystic kidney disease and for transplants from African American and non-African American donors.

RESULTS

Among the 72 980 transplant donor and recipients included in the study (median donor age, 41 years; interquartile range [IQR], 32-50 years; 43 990 [60%] female; 50 014 [69%] White), 43 174 (59%) donors and recipients were biologically related and 29 806 (41%) were unrelated. Donors related to their recipients were younger (median [IQR] age, 39 [31-48] vs 44 [35-52] years) and less likely to be female (24 848 [58%] vs 19 142 [64%]) or White (26 933 [62%] vs 23 081 [77%]). Recipients related to their donors were younger (median [IQR] age, 48 [34-58] vs 50 [40-58] years), more likely to be female (18 035 [42%] vs 10 530 [35%]), and less likely to have cystic kidney disease (2530 [6%] vs 4600 [15%]). Related pairs had fewer HLA mismatches overall (median [IQR], 3 [2-3] vs 5 [4-5]). After adjustment for HLA mismatches, donor and recipient characteristics, and transplant era, donor-recipient biological relationship was associated with higher death-censored allograft failure (hazard ratio, 1.05; 95% CI, 1.01-1.10; P = .03). When stratified by primary disease, this association persisted only for recipients without cystic kidney disease. When stratified by donor race, this association persisted only for transplants from African American donors.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

In this cohort study, living donor kidney transplants from donors biologically related to their recipients had higher rates of allograft failure than transplants from donors unrelated to their recipients after HLA matching was accounted for. Further study is needed to determine which genetic or socioenvironmental factors are associated with this finding.

Prevalence of Non-Adherence to Immunosuppressive Medications in Kidney Transplant Recipients: Barriers and Predictors

Background

Non-adherence to immunosuppressant therapy (IST) is a major risk factor for graft rejection. Limited reports are available regarding the prevalence of non-adherence to IST in kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) as well as the predictors and barriers of non-adherence.

Material/Methods

The study included ambulatory KTRs, ≥18 years of age, with a functional kidney, from January 2017 to November 2018. The primary outcome was the prevalence of non-adherence, assessed with: 1) A telephone interview to complete the Arabic-translated and validated Immunosuppressant Therapy Adherence Instrument Scale (ITAS) and 2) IST serum blood levels within therapeutic levels. The secondary outcomes were the barriers to adherence using the validated Immunosuppressant Therapy Barriers of Adherence Scale (ITBS).

Results

We enrolled 102 of 141 patients screened. The mean±SD for age, body mass index, and the baseline of the estimated glomerular filtration rate were 45.5±15.6 years, 29.1±6 kg/m², and 72.7±21.9 ml/min/1.73 m², respectively. The prevalence of non-adherence was 5.9%, 95% CI (2.19–12.36%) and 14.7%, 95% CI (8.47–23.09%) using the ITAS and the average blood serum drug levels, respectively. The concordance of the 2 methods demonstrated an agreement of 81.3%, kappa of 0.01, and 95% CI (−0.16 to 0.18). The median, interquartile range (IQR) for ITBS, and uncontrollable and controllable barriers for adherence were 21, (18–25), 15, (12–18), and 6, (5–8), respectively.

Conclusions

The current study demonstrated a low to moderate prevalence of non-adherence to IST in KTRs. The barriers for adherence with IST necessitate additional targeted interventions to manage and optimize therapeutic and clinical outcomes.

Association Between Regulatory Emotional Self-Efficacy and Immunosuppressive Medication Adherence in Renal Transplant Recipients:Does Medication Belief Act as a Mediator?

Background: Few studies have investigated the association between regulatory emotional self-efficacy (RESE) and immunosuppressive medication adherence or the mechanisms underlying this relationship. Considering that previous evidence of immunosuppressive medication adherence depended on the level of immunosuppressive medication beliefs, a model of multiple mediation was tested in which immunosuppressive medication beliefs acted as mediators of the relationship between RESE and immunosuppressive medication adherence. Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional study was performed in 293 renal transplant patients during outpatient follow-ups from November 2019 to February 2020 in China. All participants completed a general demographic questionnaire, the Chinese version of the RESE, the Beliefs about Medication Questionnaire, and the Basel Assessment of Adherence with Immunosuppressive Medication Scale (BAASIS). Spearson correlation analysis was carried out to identify the correlation between RESE and immunosuppressive medication adherence. Binary logistic regression analysis was performed to confirm factors associated with immunosuppressive medication adherence in renal transplant recipients. Mediating effect analysis was used to explore the internal interaction between RESE and immunosuppressive medication adherence. Results: A total of 293 renal transplant patients were recruited, including 111 women and 182 men with a mean age of 42.5 years (SD = 10.0). A total of 23.21% of patients exhibited immunosuppressive medication none-adherence behavior, and 12.97% reported altering the prescribed amount of immunosuppressive medication without physician permission, which was most popular behavior among patients. The mean RESE score was 45.78 ± 6.12; the positive (POS) score was the highest, and the anger-irritation (ANG) score was the lowest. The correlation analysis results showed that RESE (r = -0.642, p < 0.01) and immunosuppressive medication beliefs (r = -0.534, p < 0.01) were significantly associated with immunosuppressive medication adherence. Binary logistic regression analysis indicated that marital status, fertility status, rejection, immunosuppressive medication beliefs, and RESE were found to be independent predictors of immunosuppressive medication adherence [R 2 = 0.803, p < 0.05]. The results of the mediating effect analysis showed that immunosuppressive medication necessity had a partial mediating effect, RESE directly and indirectly affected immunosuppressive medication adherence via immunosuppressive medication necessity, and immunosuppressive medication concerns were not a mediator between RESE and immunosuppressive medication adherence. Conclusion: The levels of immunosuppressive medication adherence in renal transplant patients need to be improved in China. Marital status, fertility status, rejection, immunosuppressive medication beliefs, and RESE were major factors affecting immunosuppressive medication adherence. RESE could affect immunosuppressive medication adherence indirectly through immunosuppressive medication necessity.

Immunosuppressive adherence after kidney transplantation in adult patients treated at an outpatient clinic: a better practice implementation project

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the compliance of the practice with the evidence-based criteria in relation to interventions developed to improve the immunosuppressive adherence of adults in postkidney transplantation.

METHOD

A best practice implementation project, based on the Joanna Briggs Institute's Practical Application of Clinical Evidence System and Getting Research into Practice audit tool for promoting change in health practice, was conducted. A baseline and a follow-up audit were conducted in a kidney transplant clinic, including a sample of kidney transplant patients with a maximum of 30 days postoperatively, and health professionals working in the post-transplant period.

RESULTS

The basic audit revealed that the parameters related to the professionals' knowledge did not reach adequate compliance; the involvement of patients in strategies to overcome barriers that interfere with nonadherence; guidelines for specific therapeutic regimens for patients and the prescription of immunosuppressants according to the patient's routine. To solve the identified weaknesses, training strategies were implemented with the professionals, follow-up by telephone contact with the patients and the elaboration and distribution of an educational booklet with guidance on the use of immunosuppressants, leading to an increase from 50 to 87.5% of conformity in the evaluated service.

CONCLUSION

The evidence implementation project provided improvements in clinical practice behaviors. It demonstrated that there are strategies that facilitate the implementation of evidence regarding the promotion of interventions to improve immunosuppressive adherence. Additional audits are still needed to improve and assess the quality of interventions promoted by professionals regarding drug adherence in the post-transplant period, as well as to verify the behavior of patients, ensuring that the project will be maintained and supported.

Health Literacy in Surgery

Background:

Low health literacy is associated with poor health outcomes in many chronic diseases and may have an important role in determining surgical outcomes. This study aims to comprehensively review the current state of science on adult health literacy in surgery and to identify knowledge gaps for future research.

Methods:

Using the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines, a systematic search was conducted to identify all studies from January 2002 through May 2018 that used validated instruments to assess health literacy among adult patients undergoing surgery. Studies were assessed for quality using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale and evaluated on findings by their focus on identifying health literacy levels, understanding associations with surgical outcomes, and/or developing interventions to address low health literacy.

Key Results:

There were 51 studies on health literacy with data from 22,139 patients included in this review. Low health literacy was present in more than one-third of surgical patients (34%, interquartile range 16%–50%). The most commonly used validated instrument for assessment of health literacy in the surgical population was the Newest Vital Sign. Most studies were focused on identifying the prevalence of low health literacy within a surgery population (84%, n = 43). Few studies focused on understanding the association of health literacy to surgical outcomes (12%, n = 6) and even fewer studies developed interventions to address health literacy (4%, n = 2).

Discussion:

Low health literacy is common among surgical patients. Important opportunities exist to better understand the role of health literacy in determining surgical outcomes and to develop more health literacy-sensitive models of surgical care. [HLRP: Health Literacy Research and Practice. 2020;4(1):e45–e65.]

Plain Language Summary:

Health literacy has not been well-studied in surgery but likely plays an important role. In this article, we reviewed all current research on health literacy in surgery to help us understand where we are at and where we need to go. We found that low health literacy is common and we need more ways to address it in surgery.

ICT-based adherence monitoring in kidney transplant recipients: a randomized controlled trial

Background

Prior studies have explored the use of regular reminders to improve adherence among kidney transplant recipients (KTRs), but none have included real-time alarms about drug dosage, frequency, and interval. In the present study, we aimed to evaluate the efficacy and stability of an information and communication technology (ICT)-based centralized monitoring system for increasing medication adherence among Korean KTRs.

Methods

In this prospective, multicenter, randomized controlled study, enrolled KTRs were randomized to either the ICT-based centralized monitoring group or control group. The ICT-based centralized monitoring system alerted both patients and medical staff with texts and pill box alarms if there was a missed dose or a dosage/time error. We compared the two groups in terms of medication adherence and transplant outcomes over 6 months, and evaluated patient satisfaction with the ICT-based monitoring system.

Results

Among 114 enrolled KTRs, 57 were assigned to the ICT-based centralized monitoring group and 57 to the control group. The two groups did not significantly differ in mean adherence at each follow-up visit. The intrapatient variability of tacrolimus and mycophenolic acid levels, renal function, and adverse transplant outcomes did not differ between the intervention and control groups, or between the intervention group with feedback generation and the intervention group without feedback generation. Patients showed high overall satisfaction with the ICT-based centralized monitoring system, which significantly improved across the study period (p = 0.012).

Conclusions

Due to high baseline adherence, the ICT-based centralized monitoring system did not maximize medication adherence or enhance transplant outcomes among Korean KTRs. However, patients were highly satisfied with the system. Our results suggest that the ICT-based centralized monitoring system could be successfully applied in clinical trials.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03136588. Registered 20 April 2017 - Retrospectively registered.

Impact of a Mobile Health Intervention on Long-term Nonadherence After Lung Transplantation: Follow-up After a Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

In a randomized controlled trial, lung transplant recipients (LTRs) using a mobile health intervention, Pocket Personal Assistant for Tracking Health (Pocket PATH), showed better adherence to the medical regimen than LTRs receiving usual care during the first year posttransplant. We examined whether these effects were maintained beyond the end of the trial and evaluated other potential risk factors for long-term nonadherence.

METHODS

Adherence in 8 areas was evaluated at follow-up in separate LTR and family caregiver (collateral) assessments. Pocket PATH and usual care groups' nonadherence rates were compared; multivariable regression analyses then examined and controlled for other patient characteristics' associations with nonadherence.

RESULTS

One hundred five LTRs (75% of survivors) were assessed (M = 3.9 years posttransplant, SD = 0.8). Nonadherence rates in the past month were 23%-81% for self-care and lifestyle requirements (diet, exercise, blood pressure monitoring, spirometry), 13%-23% for immunosuppressants and other medications, and 4% for tobacco use, with 31% clinic appointment nonadherence in the past year. In multivariable analysis, the Pocket PATH group showed lower risk of nonadherence to lifestyle requirements (diet/exercise) than the usual care group (P < 0.05). Younger age and factors during the first year posttransplant (acute graft rejection, chronically elevated anxiety, less time rehospitalized, nonadherence at the final randomized controlled trial assessment) were each associated with nonadherence in at least 1 area at follow-up (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Pocket PATH did not have sustained impact on most areas of the regimen, although we identified other risk factors for long-term nonadherence. Future work should explore strategies to facilitate sustained effects of mobile health interventions.

Psychological and Psychopathological Aspects of Kidney Transplantation: A Systematic Review

Kidney transplantation is a serious event that involves profound psychological, relational and social changes both for the patient and his family context. Assessment of personality profile, awareness of disease, family and social support of the patient candidate for kidney transplantation are necessary because factors not adequately considered, can influence the success of the transplant and alter the psychological stability of the patient. The present study aims to provide a systematic review of the literature of the last twelve years (2006-2018), focusing in particular on patient's readiness level and illness management and on possible psychopathology. Sixty-two studies were examined. Based on the Downs and Black checklist, most studies (n = 32) were of high quality; 15 of which related to lifestyle, health education, and therapeutic adherence in post-renal transplantation, 17 studies concerned the possible existence of psychopathology and cognitive impairment of renal deceased transplanted subjects. The literature used has shown that the population of kidney transplant patients is exposed to a high risk of psychiatric disorders with repercussions on the quality of life and the risk of rejection. Therefore, an adequate pre-transplant psychosocial assessment is necessary, which allows a more in-depth knowledge of the candidate to plan coping strategies and possible post-transplant psychotherapy.

Optimization of Electronically Monitored Non-Adherence in Highly Adherent Renal Transplant Recipients by Reducing the Dosing Frequency - A Prospective Single-Center Observational Study

BACKGROUND

Non-adherence (NA) after renal transplantation poses a major risk for allograft rejection, graft loss, and patient mortality. Yet, there is still ambiguity about its etiology and its possible relationships with patient-related factors. In order to prevent poor outcomes after transplantation, it is crucial to gain a more refined understanding of potential determinants, to identify patients at risk, and to intervene accordingly. The objective of this study was to assess potential risk factors of NA by prospectively applying electronic monitoring.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This was a single-center prospective observational study. Prior to study initiation, sociodemographic, biomedical, and psychosocial variables (depression, health-related quality of life, self-efficacy, social support, attachment, experiences and attitudes towards immunosuppressive medication, emotional responses after organ transplantation, satisfaction with information about immunosuppressive medication, and perceptions and beliefs about medications) were assessed. Thereafter, immunosuppressive adherence behavior was measured prospectively via electronic monitoring (EM, VAICA©) during a 3-month period to receive the percentage frequency of Taking and Timing Adherence (±2h, ±30min) for each patient. Focus of this study was the phase of medication implementation.

RESULTS

A total of 78 patients participated in our study (mean age 55.28, 56% male). We found rates of 99.39% for Taking Adherence, 98.34% for Timing Adherence ±2h, and 93.34% for Timing Adherence ±30min, respectively.  Multiple regression analyses revealed that the type of medication could significantly predict Taking Adherence. Patients receiving Advagraf© (once daily) depicted better Taking Adherence than patients receiving Prograf© (twice daily) (p=0.04). No associations were found for Timing Adherence (±2h, ±30min). Sociodemographic, biomedical, or psychosocial variables were not found to be associated with adherence behavior.

DISCUSSION

In highly adherent populations, only a few factors can be altered to improve adherence. Changing the immunosuppressive regimen from twice-daily to once-daily could be an option for optimizing adherence. However, risk factors for NA could be different in a less adherent population.

Adherence profiles in kidney transplant patients: Causes and consequences

OBJECTIVE

Adherence is a dynamic phenomenon and a critical determinant of transplant patients outcome. The objective of this longitudinal study was to explore adherence in kidney transplant patients followed-up for up to three years after transplantation.

METHODS

Adherence was repeatedly estimated using the Morisky-Green-Levine 4-Item Medication Adherence Scale, in two successive cohorts of 345 (EPIGREN) and 367 (EPHEGREN) kidney transplant recipients. Mixed effect modeling with latent processes and latent classes was used to describe adherence time-profiles.

RESULTS

Two latent classes were identified. The adherent class represented 85% of the patients. Patients of the poorer-adherence class displayed a lower adherence at one month (p<10^-3), which worsened over time. Good adherence was associated with age >50 years, fewer depression episodes (5% vs. 13%, p = 0.001) and a better mental health component of quality of life (MCS-SF36 47 ± 11 vs. 41 ± 13, p = 0.015). Survival without acute rejection episodes was longer in the adherent class (p = 0.004).

CONCLUSIONS

The risk of poor adherence in renal transplant patients can be detected as early as one month post-transplantation, using appropriate and easy tools adapted to routine monitoring.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS

An early focus on vulnerable patients should allow putting into place actions in order to reduce the risk of poor outcome related to poor adherence.

Improving medication adherence and outcomes in adult kidney transplant patients using a personal systems approach: SystemCHANGE™ results of the MAGIC randomized clinical trial

This study determined if a SystemCHANGE™ intervention was more efficacious than attention control in increasing immunosuppressive medication adherence and improving outcomes in adult kidney transplant recipients during a 6-month intervention phase and subsequent 6-month (no intervention) maintenance phase. The SystemCHANGE™ intervention taught patients to use person-level quality improvement strategies to link adherence to established daily routines, environmental cues, and supportive people. Eighty-nine patients (average age 51.8 years, 58% male, 61% African American) completed the 6-month intervention phase. Using an intent-to-treat analysis, at 6 months, medication adherence for SystemCHANGE™ (median 0.91, IQR 0.76-0.96) and attention control (median 0.67, IQR 0.52-0.72) patients differed markedly (difference in medians 0.24, 95% CI 0.13-0.30, P < .001). At the conclusion of the subsequent 6-month maintenance phase, the gap between medication adherence for SystemCHANGE™ (median 0.77, IQR 0.56-0.94) and attention control (median 0.60, IQR 0.44-0.73) patients remained large (difference in medians 0.17, 95% CI 0.06-0.33, P = .004). SystemCHANGE™ patients evidenced lower mean creatinine and BUN at 12 months and more infections at 6 and 12 months. This first fully powered RCT testing SystemCHANGE™ to improve and maintain medication adherence in kidney transplant recipients demonstrated large, clinically meaningful improvements in medication adherence. Clinical Trial Registration: NCT02416479.

Factors Associated With Adherence To Immunosuppressive Therapy And Barriers In Asian Kidney Transplant Recipients

Background

Medication non-adherence is the major risk factor for rejection episodes. The aim of this study was to determine the risk factors associated with adherence to immunosuppressive regimen and its barriers among kidney transplant (KT) recipients.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was performed in two outpatient post-transplant clinics in Mashhad, northeast of Iran. All patients who attended the clinics from August to October 2017 were included. Patients’s knowledge, adherence to immunosuppressive regimen, and quality of life were measured using the Kidney Transplant Understanding Tool, Basel Assessment of Adherence to Immunosuppressive Medications Scale (BAASIS), and SF-12V2 questionnaire, respectively. The barriers in adhering immunosuppressive regimen were investigated by Immunosuppressive Therapy Barriers Scale. Logistic regression was used to screen the significant risk factors of medication non-adherence.

Results

In this study, 244 KT recipients were included with a mean age of 39.6±12.5 years. Based on the BAASIS score, 111 (45.5%) patients were adherent to immunosuppressive regimen. Female patients were more likely to be adherent (OR=0.48, p<0.01). The patients with higher level of quality of life were more likely to follow immunosuppressive medications (OR=1.078, p<0.05). The main barriers were as follows: concurrent use of many immunosuppressants, lack of knowledge about the usefulness of immunosuppressive medications, confusion in medication taking, and difficulty in remembering medication taking.

Conclusion

More than half of the KT recipients were non-adherence to immunosuppressive regimen. These findings highlight the need for designing interventions in order to reduce or eliminate these barriers and consequently increase medication adherence among KT recipients.

Effect and features of information technology-based interventions on self-management in adolescent and young adult kidney transplant recipients: a systematic review

Introduction

Adolescent and young adult periods are characterized by increased risk-taking, impulsive behavior, and nonadherence issues, which makes it equally challenging for patients and their health care professionals. Health information technology (IT) has the potential to empower patients.

Objective

Determine the effects and features of IT-based interventions for self-management of adolescents and young adults in kidney transplant recipients.

Materials and Methods

A comprehensive survey was done on Medline and Scopus in September 2018. Eligible studies included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-experimental studies focused on automated IT-based interventions. Studies contained information about adolescent and young adult kidney transplant recipients aged under 25, all published in English. The articles were combined with each other based on the classification of outcomes, the type of interventions, and their impact. The studies were categorized based on the impact of interventions as positive and statistically significant, with no effect, or a combined effect (both positive significance and without effect).

Results

In this review, of a total of 2,242 retrieved articles, collected from Scopus and PubMed databases, 5 studies met the full-text inclusion criteria. Interventions were performed using computerized systems (3 studies), smartphone application/personal digital ass (PDA) (1 study), and multiple components (1 study). These studies evaluated 15 outcomes, including 7 care process and 8 clinical outcomes. In 6 of 15 outcomes (40%), interventions had a statistically significant positive effect.

Conclusion

IT-based interventions such as mobile health/personal digital assistant(PDA), computer systems and multi-component have the potential to improve self-management in adolescents and young adult kidney transplant recipients (care process outcomes). It is recommended to conduct complementary research to examine the effect of IT-based self-management interventions on clinical outcomes in kidney transplant recipients.

Health literacy and patient outcomes in chronic kidney disease: a systematic review

Background

Limited health literacy affects 25% of people with chronic kidney disease (CKD), and may reduce self-management skills resulting in poorer clinical outcomes. By disproportionately affecting people with low socio-economic status and non-white ethnicity, limited health literacy may promote health inequity.

Methods

We performed a systematic review of quantitative studies of health literacy and clinical outcomes among adults with CKD.

Results

A total of 29 studies (13 articles; 16 conference abstracts) were included. One included non-USA patients. Of the 29 studies, 5 were cohort studies and 24 were cross-sectional. In all, 18 300 patients were studied: 4367 non-dialysis CKD; 13 202 dialysis; 390 transplant; 341 unspecified. Median study size was 127 [interquartile range (IQR) 92-238)], but 480 (IQR 260-2392) for cohort studies. Median proportion of non-white participants was 48% (IQR 17-70%). Six health literacy measures were used. Outcomes included patient attributes, care processes, clinical/laboratory parameters and 'hard' clinical outcomes. Limited health literacy was significantly, independently associated with hospitalizations, emergency department use, missed dialysis sessions, cardiovascular events and mortality (in cohort studies). Study quality was high (1 study), moderate (3 studies) and poor (25 studies), limited by sampling methods, variable adjustment for confounders and reduced methodological detail given in conference abstracts.

Conclusions

There is limited robust evidence of the causal effects of health literacy on patient outcomes in CKD. Available evidence suggests associations with adverse clinical events, increased healthcare use and mortality. Prospective studies are required to determine the causal effects of health literacy on outcomes in CKD patients, and examine the relationships between socio-economic status, comorbidity, health literacy and CKD outcomes. Intervention development and evaluation will determine whether health literacy is a modifiable determinant of poor outcomes in CKD.

Medication non-adherence after kidney transplantation: A critical appraisal and systematic review

Medication non-adherence is one of the most important causes for shortened graft survival subsequently leading to a reduction in kidney graft survival results. Our aim was to provide an overview of its prevalence, risk factors, diagnostic methods and interventions to improve adherence in kidney transplant recipients. Therefore, we systematically searched the databases PubMed, COCHRANE Library, Web of Science and EMBASE for studies addressing "medication adherence", "compliance", "adherence", "kidney transplantation" and "life style factors". We identified 96 studies that satisfied our inclusion criteria. A problematic lack of a uniformly accepted definition for non-adherence was found, consequently leading to a wide range in non-adherence prevalence (36-55%). Using one uniformly accepted non-adherence definition should therefore be encouraged. A wide range in diagnostic methods makes it difficult to accurately detect non-adherence. Heterogeneous results of intervention studies make it difficult to select the best adherence enhancing method, challenging the battle against medication non-adherence. Literature suggests a combination of personalized interventions, based on patient-specific non-adherent behavior, to be most successful in improvement of adherence. High quality diagnostic methods and multidisciplinary, personalized interventions with focus on relevant clinical outcome are essential in overcoming medication non-adherence in kidney transplant recipients.

"Smartphone Medication Adherence Saves Kidneys" for Kidney Transplantation Recipients: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial

Background

Kidney transplant recipients’ poor medication adherence and poor control of comorbidities, particularly hypertension, are risk factors for graft rejection, graft loss, and death. Few randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have been successful in improving sustained medication adherence and blood pressure control among kidney transplantation recipients. We provide rationale for an RCT evaluating a mobile health medical self-management system for kidney transplantation recipients called Smartphone Medication Adherence Saves Kidneys (SMASK).

Objective

Our objective is to determine whether SMASK is efficacious in improving medication adherence and sustaining blood pressure control among kidney transplantation recipients with uncontrolled hypertension and poor medication adherence compared to an enhanced standard care.

Methods

This two-arm, 6-month, phase II single-site efficacy RCT will involve 80 kidney transplantation recipients. Participants will be randomly assigned to the SMASK intervention arm or control arm. SMASK includes multilevel components: automated reminders from an electronic medication tray; tailored text messages and motivational feedback, guided by the self-determination theory; and automated summary reports for providers. Evaluations will be conducted preintervention, at 3 and 6 months, and posttrial at 12 months. Specific aims are to test the hypotheses that compared to standard care, the SMASK cohort will demonstrate significantly improved changes at 3, 6, and 12 months in the primary outcome variables medication adherence (proportion with electronic monitor-derived score >0.90) and blood pressure control (proportion meeting and sustaining adherence to the Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes [KDIGO] guidelines for blood pressure control); the secondary outcome variables provider adherence to KDIGO guidelines, measured by timing of medication changes and changes in self-determination theory constructs; and the exploratory outcome variables estimated glomerular filtration rate, variability in calcineurin inhibitor trough levels, and proportion of patients meeting and sustaining the 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure below 130/80 mm Hg. After the 6-month evaluation, interviews with a random sample of SMASK subjects (n=20) and health care providers (n=3-5) will assess user reactions including acceptability, usability, and aids/barriers to sustainability. Data from the RCT and interviews will be triangulated to further refine and optimize SMASK and prepare for a multisite effectiveness RCT.

Results

The SMASK project received funding from National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases in June 2016, obtained institutional review board approval in April 2016, and began data collection in July 2016. As of July 2018, we completed enrollment with a total of 80 participants.

Conclusions

This study will provide data regarding the efficacy of SMASK to improve medication adherence and blood pressure control in a cohort of hypertensive kidney transplant recipients. An efficacious SMASK intervention will pave the way for a larger, multicenter, effectiveness RCT powered sufficiently to evaluate clinical events in a real-world setting and with the potential to demonstrate improved outcomes at lower cost than standard care.

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

DERR1-10.2196/13351

Improving medication adherence in adult kidney transplantation (IMAKT): A pilot randomised controlled trial

Resources to support long-term medication adherence in kidney transplantation are limited. This study aimed to determine the efficacy of an intervention designed for kidney transplant recipients to enhance medication adherence. A single-blind, multi-site, 12-month pilot randomised controlled trial was conducted at all five public hospitals providing adult kidney transplantation in Victoria, Australia. Participants were recruited at 4 to 6 weeks post-transplantation. Thirty-five participants were randomly assigned to a 3-month intervention, involving a face-to-face meeting (a medication review and a consumer-centred video) and health coaching every two weeks. Thirty-six were randomised to receive usual care. All participants were followed for nine months post-intervention. There were no differences in adherence between groups measured by Medication Event Monitoring System (MEMS), however, it was underutilised by 42% of participants. Based on the self-reported Basel Assessment of Adherence to Immunosuppressive Medications Scale (BAASIS©) score, the percentage of adherent participants decreased significantly between baseline and 3 to 12 months in the control group (p-values < 0.001) whilst the percentage of adherent participants in the intervention group remained constant over time. No group differences were detected in other outcomes. Due to the complex medication regimen, developing and testing a medication adherence intervention is difficult in kidney transplantation.

Life Quality and Compliance After Transplant: The Case of Turkey

OBJECTIVE

Chronic renal failure is one of the most significant health problems in Turkey, as it is all over the world, and negatively affects quality of life. The aim of this study is to find factors affecting compliance levels and quality of life of patients undergoing kidney transplant.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The population of the study consisted of 244 patients who underwent kidney transplant. Although the study aimed to cover the entire target population in the sampling selection, it was conducted among 206 patients. The data were collected by face-to-face interview.

RESULTS

Of the patients, 92.7% were between 46 and 59 years of age, 54.4% had a living donor transplant, 54.9% had adverse effects, and 2.9% had rejection due to incompatibility. There was a significant relationship between compliance and quality of life; increasing frequency of adverse effects would decrease in direct proportion to compliance, which would, therefore, increase quality of life. All the subscale scores of the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey were found to have an average of 60 and above. The mean of the compliance scale was 48.33 (SD, 3.21), and, with the maximum score at 55, the mean of the group was high. In our country, patients view transplant as a final and definite treatment method. This might be related to fact that the longer the time after transplant, the lower the level of compliance.

Beliefs of Immunosuppressive Medication Among Chinese Renal Transplant Recipients, as Assessed in a Cross-Sectional Study With the Basel Assessment of Adherence to Immunosuppressive Medications Scale

BACKGROUND

Adherence to immunosuppressive medication (IM) after renal transplantation is crucial to survival of patient and graft outcomes; whether beliefs about IM adherence and other sociodemographic factors affect IM adherence is debatable.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to examine the beliefs on IM and IM adherence in Chinese renal transplant recipients.

METHODS

Across-sectional survey was conducted. Self-developed IM beliefs questionnaire guided by health belief model was used to measure IM beliefs. The Basel Assessment of Adherence to Immunosuppressive Medications Scale was used to assess drug adherence.

RESULTS

The nonadherence rate to IM in 208 renal transplant recipients during outpatient follow-up was 44.2%. There were statistically significant associations between adherence and the marital status (P < .001). Perceived seriousness of not taking IM (P < .001) and perceived barriers of taking IM (P < .001) were significantly associated with IM adherence. After controlling other factors, married marital status, high levels of perceived seriousness of not taking IM, and lower levels of perceived barriers of taking IM (P = .007) were significantly associated with IM adherence.

CONCLUSION

Marital status and IM beliefs are closely association with IM adherence in Chinese renal transplant recipients.

Prevalence and Risk Factors of Immunosuppressant Nonadherence in Heart Transplant Recipients: A Single-Center Cross-Sectional Study

BACKGROUND

Immunosuppressant nonadherence (INA) has been shown to affect outcomes after solid organ transplantation. The aim of the present study was to determine the prevalence of INA in heart transplant recipients and the associated risk factors of INA.

METHODS

Adult heart transplant recipients who firstly received heart transplantation (discharged for at least 3 months) were consecutively enrolled. Immunosuppressant adherence was assessed using the Basel Assessment of Adherence with Immunosuppressive Medication Scale (BAASIS). INA was categorized into five domains of contributing factors (socio-demographic factors, transplant-related factors, healthcare system access factors, post-transplant treatment-related factors, and patient-related psychosocial factors). These factors were compared between adherent and nonadherent patients. The risk factors of INA were investigated by logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 168 heart recipients were ultimately included. Among them, 69 (41.1%) recipients were revealed to be nonadherent. Logistic regression analysis indicated that INA was associated with monthly income<3000 Chinese Yuan (CNY) (OR, 3.11; 95% CI, 1.58-6.12; p=0.001), number of prescribed concomitant drugs (OR, 1.23; 95% CI, 1.12-1.50; p=0.003) and concerns about immunosuppressants (OR, 1.09; 95% CI, 1.01-1.18; p=0.031).

CONCLUSIONS

Heart recipients had a high prevalence of INA. Lower income, greater number of prescribed concomitant drugs, and more concerns about immunosuppressants correlated most with timing nonadherence and taking nonadherence among heart recipients. These findings will be helpful to intervene on and prevent future INA of heart recipients.

Adherence to medication in patients with chronic kidney disease: a systematic review of qualitative research

Non-adherence to multipharmacological treatment increases the risk of morbidity, mortality and hospitalization. We know little about the perspective of patients with chronic kidney disease regarding factors influencing medicine taking. This study aimed to synthesize findings from qualitative studies of patients' experiences of factors that facilitate and hinder adherence to medication. A systematic review of qualitative studies adhering to the Enhancing transparency in reporting the synthesis of qualitative research (ENTREQ) framework. Systematic searches were conducted in several databases. We used thematic synthesis and the Confidence in the Evidence from Reviews of Qualitative Research (CERQual) approach to assess the confidence of the evidence. Nineteen studies involving 381 patients with chronic kidney disease were included. We identified three analytical themes; logistics, benchmarking the need for medication; and the quality of the patient-physician relationship, with seven descriptive sub-themes as factors influencing patients' adherence to medications. Helping patients to map their everyday activities and motivating them to associate medications with everyday activities may facilitate adherence to medications. Addressing patient beliefs about medications, supporting patients in coping with side effects of medications and eliciting patients' wishes for involvement in treatment decisions may also facilitate adherence. Barriers to adherence were the costs of buying medications, and lacking understanding of the indications and effects of medications. The findings in this synthesis resonate with previous research and extend the known literature by synthesizing and formally assessing confidence in the evidence.

Web-Based Tailored Intervention to Support Optimal Medication Adherence Among Kidney Transplant Recipients: Pilot Parallel-Group Randomized Controlled Trial

Background

Optimal immunosuppressive medication adherence is essential to graft survival. Transplant-TAVIE is a Web-based tailored intervention developed to promote this adherence.

Objective

The objective of our study was to evaluate the Transplant-TAVIE intervention’s acceptability, feasibility, and preliminary efficacy.

Methods

In a pilot, parallel-group, randomized controlled trial, we randomly assigned a convenience sample of 70 kidney transplant patients on immunosuppressive medication either to an experimental group (Transplant-TAVIE) or to a control group (existing websites). Kidney transplant recipients had to be older than 18 years, be taking immunosuppressant medication, and have access to the internet to participate in this study. Transplant-TAVIE was composed of three interactive Web-based sessions hosted by a virtual nurse. We documented user appreciation of and exposure to the intervention. Furthermore, we assessed medication adherence, medication self-efficacy, intake-related skills, and medication side effects at baseline and 3 and 6 months later. Analyses of variance were used to assess intergroup differences over time.

Results

After baseline questionnaire completion, participants were randomly assigned either to Transplant-TAVIE (n=35) or to the websites (n=35) group. All participants had received their kidney graft <1 year to 32 years earlier (mean 6.8 years). Of the experimental group, 54% (19/35) completed the sessions of Transplant-TAVIE. Users found the intervention to be acceptable—33% were extremely satisfied (6/18), 39% were very satisfied (7/18), and 28% were satisfied (5/18). At baseline and over time, both experimental and control groups reported high medication adherence, high medication self-efficacy, and frequent use of skills related to medication intake. No intergroup differences emerged over time.

Conclusions

The results of this study support the feasibility and acceptability of Transplant-TAVIE. It could constitute an accessible adjunct in support of existing specialized services.

Shedding light on an unknown reality in solid organ transplant patients' self-management: A contextual inquiry study

Traditional quantitative and qualitative research methods inadequately capture the complexity of patients' daily self-management. Contextual inquiry methodology, using home visits, allows a more in-depth understanding of how patients integrate immunosuppressive medication intake, physical activity, and healthy eating in their daily lives, and which difficulties they experience when doing so. This mixed-method study comprised 2 home visits in 19 purposively selected adult heart, lung, liver, and kidney transplant patients, asking them to demonstrate how they implement the aforementioned health behaviors. Meanwhile, conversations were audio-taped and photographs were taken. Audio-visual materials were coded using directed content analysis. Difficulties and supportive strategies were identified via inductive thematic analysis. We learned that few patients understood what "sufficiently active" means. Physical discomforts and poor motivation created variation across activity levels observed. Health benefits of dietary guidelines were insufficiently understood, and their implementation into everyday life considered difficult. Many underestimated the strictness of immunosuppressive medication intake, and instructions on handling late doses were unclear. Interruptions in routine and busyness contributed to nonadherence. We also learned that professionals often recommend supportive strategies, which patients not always like or need. This contextual inquiry study revealed unique insights, providing a basis for patient-tailored self-management interventions.

[Description of immunosuppressive maintenance treatments post kidney transplant through the National System of Health Insurance]

The aim of this study was to describe the drug dispensing of maintenance immunosuppression treatment in 2014 for patients who received a kidney transplant in 2012, based on the data of the French national health insurance and to compare those results with the information collected in the national database for kidney recipients. For each patient, are considered all drugs dispensing with their dates of issue, the molecules and their presentations (number of pills and dosage). Among 2463 transplanted adults in 2012, 73% have received tacrolimus monohydrate, 59% mycophenolate mofetil, 54% prednisone and 20% cyclosporin in 2014. The daily doses but not the number of tablets per day declined with age. The most frequent association was tacrolimus monohydrate-mycophenolate mofetil-steroids in 34% of the cases. The use of mTOR inhibitors, rare generally (7%), is more common in patients aged 66-85 years. Associations did not differ significantly according to diabetic status, for patients with a kidney from an elderly donor or according to the number of mismatch. The daily doses estimated from the deliverance in pharmacy are respectively similar, understated and over-estimate for tacrolimus, mycophenolate mofetil and cyclosporin compared to the national database. This study confirms the difficulty of apprehending drug consumption based only on dispensing in pharmacies or punctual recording even if it allows a fairly comprehensive view of French practices.

The 2018 ISHLT/APM/AST/ICCAC/STSW recommendations for the psychosocial evaluation of adult cardiothoracic transplant candidates and candidates for long-term mechanical circulatory support

The psychosocial evaluation is well-recognized as an important component of the multifaceted assessment process to determine candidacy for heart transplantation, lung transplantation, and long-term mechanical circulatory support (MCS). However, there is no consensus-based set of recommendations for either the full range of psychosocial domains to be assessed during the evaluation, or the set of processes and procedures to be used to conduct the evaluation, report its findings, and monitor patients' receipt of and response to interventions for any problems identified. This document provides recommendations on both evaluation content and process. It represents a collaborative effort of the International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation (ISHLT) and the Academy of Psychosomatic Medicine, American Society of Transplantation, International Consortium of Circulatory Assist Clinicians, and Society for Transplant Social Workers. The Nursing, Health Science and Allied Health Council of the ISHLT organized a Writing Committee composed of international experts representing the ISHLT and the collaborating societies. This Committee synthesized expert opinion and conducted a comprehensive literature review to support the psychosocial evaluation content and process recommendations that were developed. The recommendations are intended to dovetail with current ISHLT guidelines and consensus statements for the selection of candidates for cardiothoracic transplantation and MCS implantation. Moreover, the recommendations are designed to promote consistency across programs in the performance of the psychosocial evaluation by proposing a core set of content domains and processes that can be expanded as needed to meet programs' unique needs and goals.

Posttransplant Medical Adherence: What Have We Learned and Can We Do Better?

Purpose of review

Non-adherence to the medical regimen after kidney transplantation can contribute to poor clinical outcomes, and strategies to maximize adherence are sought by care providers and patients alike. We assessed recent evidence on prevalence, risk factors, and clinical outcomes associated with non-adherence to the medical regimen after kidney transplantation. We summarized recent clinical trials testing interventions to improve adherence and generated recommendations for future research and clinical practice.

Recent findings

A large evidence base documents rates of non-adherence to each of the multiple components of the regimen, including medication-taking, lifestyle activities, clinical care requirements, and substance use restrictions. Some risk factors for non-adherence are well known but the full range of risk factors remains unclear. Non-adherence to immunosuppressants and to other components of the regimen increases morbidity and mortality risks. Recent interventions, including education and counseling; electronic health strategies; and medication dose modifications, show promise for reducing immunosuppressant non-adherence. However, most of these interventions would be difficult to deploy in everyday clinical practice. Systematic dissemination of efficacious interventions into clinical practice has not been undertaken.

Summary

Rates and risk factors for non-adherence to the medical regimen have been examined and there is evidence that non-adherence may be ameliorated by a range of interventions. Although gaps in the evidence base remain, it would be timely to devote greater efforts to dissemination of findings. Thus, efforts are needed to assist transplant programs in using existing evidence to better identify patients who are non-adherent and to design and implement strategies to reduce or prevent non-adherence.

Self-Management in Liver Transplant Recipients

Introduction:

Although self-management is essential for liver transplant recipients, there is no review that has synthesized findings related to self-management in this population.

Objective:

This narrative review aimed to synthesize the current findings and identify the gaps in knowledge about self-management in liver recipients.

Methods:

A search of PubMed, CINAHL Plus, PsychINFO, ProQuest, and Web of Science was conducted using the following terms: [Self-care OR Self-management OR Health behavior] AND [Liver transplantation]. Peer-reviewed published research articles focusing on self-management of adult recipients were selected. A total of 23 articles were included for review. Two reviewers independently reviewed the full text of selected articles and extracted the data about definitions, measurements, and findings regarding self-management.

Results:

Three areas of self-management were identified, including medication nonadherence (n = 11), alcohol recidivism (n = 11), and health maintenance (n = 5). Reported rates of medication nonadherence ranged from 8% to 66%. Medication nonadherence was related to recipients’ demographic (eg, age or sex), transplant-related (eg, time since transplant), and pretransplant variables (eg, history of substance/alcohol abuse). Reported alcohol recidivism rates ranged from 3% to 95%. Age, pretransplant variables (eg, abstinent time before transplant), and personality disorder were identified to be related to alcohol recidivism after transplant. The health maintenance studies discussed behaviors such as smoking, clinic appointment attendance, or vaccination/health screening behaviors of recipients.

Discussion:

Self-management studies in liver recipients have been narrowly focused on medication nonadherence and alcohol recidivism. To improve self-management in recipients, self-management beyond medication nonadherence and alcohol recidivism should be comprehensively examined.

Leadership Perspectives on Integrating Psychologists into Specialty Care Clinics: An Evolving Paradigm

Integration of health psychologists into specialty care is a shift in the tertiary care construct that addresses all aspects of a patient's presentation, including psychiatric/social history, psychological well-being, and behavioral contributions to the disease process, assuring both optimal health outcomes and cost-effectiveness in a financially challenging healthcare environment. In this paper, we discuss leadership perspectives (physician and psychologists) on the factors involved in integrating a health psychologist into a busy tertiary care environment. Ultimately, we hope that this information provides a primer on how to frame a proposal for an integrated health psychologist emphasizing the elements important to senior medical leadership and administration. First, we briefly discuss the current payer framework, providing support for integration emphasizing costs and other metrics. Second, we introduce organizational structure models and strategies for integration. Lastly, we will discuss the unique skillset psychologists possess, and additional skills necessary, to be effective in the changing landscape of healthcare. We think this information is important both for leaders attempting to integrate a health psychologist into specialty care and for the early career health psychologist embarking on his/her first senior staff position.

Psychosocial Variables Associated with Immunosuppressive Medication Non-Adherence after Renal Transplantation

INTRODUCTION

Non-adherence to immunosuppressive medication is regarded as an important factor for graft rejection and loss after successful renal transplantation. Yet, results on prevalence and relationship with psychosocial parameters are heterogeneous. The main aim of this study was to investigate the association of immunosuppressive medication non-adherence and psychosocial factors.

METHODS

In 330 adult renal transplant recipients (≥12 months posttransplantation), health-related quality of life, depression, anxiety, social support, and subjective medication experiences were assessed, and their associations with patient-reported non-adherence was evaluated.

RESULTS

33.6% of the patients admitted to be partially non-adherent. Non-adherence was associated with younger age, poorer social support, lower mental, but higher physical health-related quality of life. There was no association with depression and anxiety. However, high proportions of clinically relevant depression and anxiety symptoms were apparent in both adherent and non-adherent patients.

CONCLUSION

In the posttransplant follow-up, kidney recipients with lower perceived social support, lower mental and higher physical health-related quality of life, and younger age can be regarded as a risk group for immunosuppressive medication non-adherence. In follow-up contacts with kidney transplant patients, physicians may pay attention to these factors. Furthermore, psychosocial interventions to optimize immunosuppressive medication adherence can be designed on the basis of this information, especially including subjectively perceived physical health-related quality of life and fostering social support seems to be of importance.

Pre-transplant history of mental health concerns, non-adherence, and post-transplant outcomes in kidney transplant recipients

OBJECTIVE

The association between pre-transplant mental health concerns and non-adherence and post-transplant outcomes after kidney transplantation is not fully established. We examined the relationship between a pre-transplant history of mental health concerns and non-adherence and post-transplant outcomes among kidney transplant recipients.

METHODS

In this retrospective single center cohort study of adult kidney transplant recipients (n=955) the associations between the history of mental health concerns or non-adherence and the time from kidney transplant to biopsy proven acute rejection; death-censored graft failure and total graft failure were examined using Cox proportional hazards models.

RESULTS

Mean (SD) age was 51 (13) years, 61% were male and 27% had a history of diabetes. Twenty-two and 11% of patients had mental health concerns and non-adherence, respectively. Fifteen percent of the patients had acute rejection, 5.6% had death-censored graft failure and 13.0% had total graft failure. The history of mental health concerns was not associated with acute rejection, death-censored graft failure or total graft failure. Patients with versus without a history of non-adherence tended to have higher cumulative incidence of acute rejection (23.3% [95% CI: 16.1, 33.2] vs. 13.6% [95% CI: 11.4, 16.2]) and death-censored graft failure (15.0% [95% CI: 6.9, 30.8] vs. 6.4% [95% CI: 4.7, 8.7]) (log rank p=0.052 and p=0.086, respectively). These trends were not significant after multivariable adjustment.

CONCLUSION

In summary, a history of pre-transplant mental health concerns or non-adherence is not associated with adverse outcomes in patients who completed transplant workup and received a kidney transplant.

Is social support associated with post-transplant medication adherence and outcomes? A systematic review and meta-analysis

Although social support is used to determine transplant eligibility, the relationship between social support, medication adherence, and survival among transplant recipients remains unclear. We estimated the relationship between social support and post-transplant medication adherence and outcomes using 10 electronic databases from inception to January 2016. Study quality was assessed and all review stages were conducted independently by 2 reviewers. Systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted. Thirty-two studies (9102 participants) met inclusion criteria: 21 assessed medication adherence (5197 participants), and 13 assessed clinical outcomes (3905 participants). Among high quality studies, neither social support nor marital status was predictive of medication adherence or post-transplant outcomes. Social support was not associated with medication adherence. It was associated with superior post-transplant outcomes, but the relationship was not significant among high quality studies. Compared to unmarried recipients, married recipients were more likely to adhere to medication post-transplant, but this relationship was not significant among high quality studies. Marital status was not significantly associated with transplant success. Social support is weakly and inconsistently associated with post-transplant adherence and outcomes. Larger prospective studies using consistent and validated measures are needed to justify the use of inadequate social support as a contraindication to transplantation.

Why Patients With Glaucoma Lose Vision: The Patient Perspective

PURPOSE

To explore why glaucoma patients believe that glaucoma continues to cause vision loss despite the availability of effective treatment.

METHODS

Nine focus groups were conducted in 3 geographically and ethnically diverse areas of the United States (Los Angeles, CA; Rochester, MN; Durham, NC) that included 56 participants, 31 with poor vision and 25 with good vision. Content analysis was used to identify important themes. Semiquantitative analysis was used to measure the frequency of each theme.

RESULTS

A total of 474 relevant comments were made in the 9 focus groups. Focus groups elicited 305 comments about barriers to glaucoma management including issues with adherence (30%), the doctor-patient relationship (21%), knowledge about glaucoma (19%), personal support systems (19%), and barriers to health care delivery such as cost and insurance (11%). A total of 101 comments were made regarding feelings about glaucoma and 58 comments were made regarding beliefs about disease and treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

These focus groups brought up many issues surrounding barriers to glaucoma treatment, perceived susceptibility to glaucoma, perceived benefits to treatment, and the emotional response to living with glaucoma. There is a need to create a more comprehensive chronic disease management approach for patients with glaucoma to address both the concrete and emotional issues identified in these focus group discussions.

Limited health literacy in advanced kidney disease

Limited health literacy may reduce the ability of patients with advanced kidney disease to understand their disease and treatment and take part in shared decision making. In dialysis and transplant patients, limited health literacy has been associated with low socioeconomic status, comorbidity, and mortality. Here, we investigated the prevalence and associations of limited health literacy using data from the United Kingdom-wide Access to Transplantation and Transplant Outcome Measures (ATTOM) program. Incident dialysis, incident transplant, and transplant wait-listed patients ages 18 to 75 were recruited from 2011 to 2013 and data were collected from patient questionnaires and case notes. A score >2 in the Single-Item Literacy Screener was used to define limited health literacy. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify patient factors associated with limited health literacy. We studied 6842 patients, 2621 were incident dialysis, 1959 were wait-listed, and 2262 were incident transplant. Limited health literacy prevalence was 20%, 15%, and 12% in each group, respectively. Limited health literacy was independently associated with low socioeconomic status, poor English fluency, and comorbidity. However, transplant wait-listing, preemptive transplantation, and live-donor transplantation were associated with increasing health literacy.

Safety of renal transplantation in patients with bipolar or psychotic disorders: a retrospective study

Solid organ transplantation societies recommend a relative contraindication of transplantation for people with bipolar or psychotic disorders. Very few data are available on the outcome of kidney transplantation and the increased risk of kidney disease in those patients. We conducted a retrospective multicenter cohort study (1979-2014) including kidney allograft recipients with either bipolar (BD) or psychotic disorders prior to transplant. Objectives were kidney allograft and patient outcomes compared to a matched control group without psychiatric disorders and the evolution of psychiatric disorder at 60 months after transplantation. Forty-seven patients including 25 women were identified, 34 with BD and 13 with psychotic disorder. Patients' overall cumulative death rates at 60 months were not significantly different in both groups [12.2%; 95% confidence interval: (4.5-24.1) in the group with psychiatric disorder versus 5.2%; (1.7-11.7) in control group P = 0.11] as for cumulative allograft loss rates [11.7% (3.5-25.2) vs. 9.4% (4.4-16.8) in control group (P = 0.91)]. Twenty-three patients (16 with BD and seven with psychotic disorder) experienced at least one psychiatric relapse [incidence rate: 1.8/100 persons- months; 95% CI; (1.2-2.7)] totaling 13 hospitalizations within 60 months of follow-up. Four patients stopped immunosuppressive therapy leading to allograft loss in three. Our study suggests that patients with BD or psychotic disorders have to be considered for renal transplantation with close psychiatric follow-up after transplant.