NON-ADHERENCE TO HIV ANTIRETROVIRAL MEDICATIONS: ‘THE DRUGS ARE WORKING AND I’M A CONTINUING SUCCESS STORY’ | Australian Journal of Advanced Nursing Home Archives Vol. 20 No. 2 (2003): December 2002 - February 2003 Research Papers Main Article Content

Denise Cummins, RN
Garry Trotter, RN
Kristine H.J. Millar, RN

Keywords

HIV/AIDS, antiretrouiral medication, adherence, nurse

Abstract

Non-adherence to antiretroviral (ARV) regimens has been associated with HIV drug resistance. Anecdotal evidence in our client group, people living with HIV/AIDS infection in Central Sydney Area Health Service (CSAHS), suggested that nonadherence was an issue. Eighty three participants completed an anonymous questionnaire; with a 98% response rate. The mean age of respondents was 44 years with 68% over age 40 years. 68% of respondents missed doses of ARV, 54% because they forgot. 54% stated they did not report the non-adherence to their doctor. They were more likely to miss the lunch time dosage (n=49, p<0.05). The results demonstrate that non-adherence with medications is a significant issue and further research into strategies for interventions to aid adherence is required.

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