Medication Adherence Views of Mental Health Nurses to Inspire Transformative Care

Aim Adherence to the treatment plan for medications is crucial in treating mental illness but remains low due to complex factors such as illness characteristics, side effects of psychotropic drugs, and systemic health-care challenges. Understanding these barriers is vital for effective management. Most research has been quantitative, focusing on clients and caregivers, leaving gaps in understanding nurses’ perspectives. This qualitative study explores views of nurses in Saudi Arabia about medication adherence in clients with mental illness. Methods Nine mental health nurses participated in one of two focus group discussions. Data were analyzed thematically. Guided by Cox's Interaction Model of Client Health Behavior, the findings identified internal (e.g., medication refusal, lack of insight) and external (e.g., weak support, cultural and financial strains) factors influencing non-adherence. Results Negative impacts of non-adherence on clients and care were noted, along with adherence-promotion strategies. Conclusion Medication adherence could be enhanced by expanding nursing roles to include psychoeducation, using psychotherapeutic approaches, implementing quality-assurance projects, extending telemedicine services, and providing additional training for nurses.