Determinants of Adherence to Living on Dialysis for Mexican Americans

• Published in: SAGE open Vol. 5; no. 1; p. 215824401557496
• Main Author: Wells, Shirley A.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Los Angeles, CA SAGE Publications 01.03.2015; SAGE Publishing
• Subjects: cultural values; illness perceptions; Health Belief Model; compliance
• ISSN: 2158-2440; 2158-2440
• DOI: 10.1177/2158244015574961

This study explores perceptions that affect adherence behaviors among Mexican Americans living with dialysis. In-depth narrative interviews were conducted with 15 Mexican Americans with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) living on dialysis, 15 family members, and 6 health care personnel who provided care to them. Four themes emerged: (a) positive influences to adherence, (b) obstacles to adherence, (c) daily activity losses, and (d) fears about living with dialysis. From the findings, the perceptions given for non-adherence with the dialysis regimen ranged from denial of the condition, lack of pre-education, to cultural factors. Those given for adherence included prolonged life, family, and hope of getting a transplant. Health care providers were the reminder to adhere. Several cultural factors influenced their adherence perceptions. Strategies to enhance adherence behaviors should focus on knowledge about dialysis, use of the collective efficacy of the family, and the inclusion of cultural values.