Date of Award
Fall 1982
Document Type
Thesis - Restricted
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department
Nursing
Abstract
According to studies, patient compliance to health care regimens varies from 11 to 82 percent. The high percentage of patient noncompliance as stated in the literature indicates a need for improving compliance in prescribed health care regimens. This literature review attempted to identify a method which may increase patient compliance: contingency contracting. The literature indicates that patients with long-term health care problems are more likely to be noncompliant. Hypertension is an example of a long-term health problem, a problem with significant health risks. Patients with long-term medical therapy need to make behavioral changes. Behavior is likely to be repeated if reinforcement occurs. A method for linking behaviors and reinforcers is the contingency contract. This study is a review of literature examining several components that contribute to patient compliance. These components include the health care delivery system, patient education, the patient's personal health belief system, and the interpersonal relationships between the patient and health care professionals. Behavior modification theory suggests that health styles can be changed through positive reinforcement. A vehicle that applies this theory is the contingency contract.
Recommended Citation
Karr, Sharon Irene, "Patient Compliance : A Literature Review" (1982). Master's Theses (1922-2009) Access restricted to Marquette Campus. 3401.
https://epublications.marquette.edu/theses/3401