Because cognitive impairment diminishes memory, attention, learning, and executive functioning, patient adherence to HF treatment regimens can be poor.
Poor adherence = poor outcome
Can you think of some strategies for improving medication adherence in HF patients living with cognitive impairment?
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Assess for cognitive impairment. If detected:
Encourage patient to allow his/her care partners help with medication administration
Use med-sets
Consider using an automated med-set that tracks medications taken and alerts care partners when there is a delay in medication administration
Note: click here to see an example. Example: Philips medication dispensing service
Ask patient about other possible med adherence barriers, costs, timing, side effects