Question

Which one of the following might be the BEST way to measure adherence to a prescribed medication regime?

a) Direct observation of medication administration.
b) Evidence of illness complications or exacerbations.
c) Monitoring laboratory values of elements influenced by the medication.
d) Questioning the client about his or her medication routine.

Answer 1

The best method to measure adherence to a prescribed medication regime is direct observation, known as directly observed therapy (DOT). However, implementing DOT for all antibiotics may not be practical due to the necessity for patient travel and potential incurring costs.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question asks about the best method to measure adherence to a prescribed medication regime, and the answer is direct observation of medication administration. This method is known as directly observed therapy (DOT), which involves health-care providers administering medication in a supervised manner. This could be at health-care facilities or in other designated areas such as a patient's home. While this method has proven effective for treatments like TB and is part of WHO’s global strategy for eradicating the disease, its practicality for all antibiotics remains questionable. Challenges include the necessity for patients to travel for medication, potential additional costs, and the responsibility for overseeing adherence.

When considering medication adherence, several factors can influence the effectiveness of the DOT, such as the nature of the disease, the type of medication, the frequency of doses, and the practicality of having health-care providers observe every dose. Furthermore, it is essential to contemplate who would bear the additional cost and how to manage the overprescription of antibiotics. These considerations lead to broader discussions around best practices in prescribing and the enforcement of these practices.