ABSTRACT
Non-adherence in patients with chronic liver disease is a problem resulting in various consequences ranging from disease deterioration to death. Insufficient medication adherence leads to enormous health care costs. Family caregivers can essentially contribute to improving adherence. The aim of this project was to develop a work instruction specifically dedicated to optimize adherence in this patient group and their family caregivers. The project team utilized the principles of participatory action research. A systematic literature research aimed at identifying interventions for improving medication adherence in patients with chronic liver disease. Findings of patient experiences from literature as well as clinical experience of nurses were evaluated for their practicability in the local context. Research revealed that information for patients and family caregivers, supportive relationships with health care professionals, helpful communication, the use of memory aids and integration of medication intake into everyday life were the most helpful adherence-enhancing interventions. The work instruction serves to integrate these interventions into clinical practice in order to ensure optimal medication adherence.
