Impact of a Short Message Service Reminder in Tuberculosis Treatment: A Literature Review

Date of Award

2018

Document Type

Thesis

College/School

College of Nursing

Degree Name

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

Program Concentration

Family Nurse Practitioner

Abstract

"Active tuberculosis (TB) requires six months of treatment, however many people find it difficult to adhere to a medication regimen over this lengthy period. Mobile (cell) phone communication has been suggested as a method to improve treatment compliance using short message service (SMS) reminders that prompt individuals to take medications and attend follow-up appointments. This study aims to review the literature regarding the impact of the implementation of short message service reminders in tuberculosis treatment. An extensive search of online databases including CINAHL, PubMed, and Medline was undertaken. Studies were included on the basis of whether they examined the benefits and effects of short-message service interventions in tuberculosis treatment. A total of 11 research studies and one literature review have been included in this review. Based on the results of the literature reviewed, an interactive SMS reminder system can improve patient education, help prevent disease associated stigma, and is a feasible method of communication that provides patient support and appears to engage its users. However, according to more recent randomized controlled trials (RCTs), there is no evidence that an SMS intervention has a significant impact on medication adherence in TB treatment. However, as there are relatively few risks associated with this intervention, it may be a reasonable system to introduce in some practice settings. Recommendations for future use of this system include enhancing the content of the text messages to include educational and motivational support and providing patients with incentives and mobile phone resources to further encourage treatment adherence."

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