THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN FAMILY SUPPORT AND MEDICATION ADHERENCE AMONG PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC KIDNEY DISEASE

Abstract

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a progressive condition requiring lifelong treatment and continuous medication adherence. However, the complexity of therapeutic regimens, polypharmacy, medication fatigue, and prolonged treatment duration frequently reduce patients' adherence to prescribed medications. Family support has been recognized as an essential external factor that enhances patients' motivation, confidence, and commitment to maintaining long-term treatment. This study employed a quantitative correlational design using a cross-sectional approach. The study population consisted of hospitalized patients with Chronic Kidney Disease who met the predetermined inclusion criteria. A total of 40 respondents were selected using purposive sampling. Data were collected using a Family Support Questionnaire based on the Guttman Scale and the Morisky Medication Adherence Scale-8 (MMAS-8). Descriptive statistics were used for univariate analysis, while the relationship between variables was analyzed using Spearman's Rank correlation test with a significance level of p < 0.05. Among the 40 respondents, 25 (62.5%) reported receiving good family support, whereas 15 (37.5%) received poor family support. Regarding medication adherence, 24 respondents (60.0%) demonstrated good adherence, while 16 respondents (40.0%) were classified as non-adherent. Spearman's Rank correlation analysis revealed a statistically significant relationship between family support and medication adherence (r = 0.738; p < 0.001), indicating a strong positive correlation. Patients who received better family support were more likely to adhere to their prescribed medication regimen. Family support is significantly associated with medication adherence among patients with Chronic Kidney Disease. Emotional, informational, instrumental, and appraisal support provided by family members play a crucial role in improving patients' adherence to medication and facilitating successful long-term disease management.