A Discussion of Compliance Factors of Hypertensive Patients to Their Medication Regimen within the Framework of the Health Belief Model

Research has shown that a surprisingly high percentage of hypertensive patients are noncompliant in following with their prescribed regimens of antihypertensive medication. Factors affecting compliant behavior were discussed within the theoretical framework of the Health Belief Model as developed by Becker. Because this theoretical framework is based upon interpersonal and intrapersonal factors determining health seeking behavior, the three behaviorally oriented strategies of Contracting, Tailoring, and Applied Analysis of Behavior were discussed as a means of improving compliance with medication regimens. Examples for utilizing these strategies in nursing practice with hypertensive patients were presented