Effectiveness of Health Literacy Program for Polypharmacy Patients (HLP-CKD)

Effectiveness of the Health Literacy Promotion Program to Prevent Chronic Kidney Disease of Patients Who Use Polypharmacy

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a health literacy promotion program in preventing chronic kidney disease (CKD) among patients who use multiple medications (polypharmacy). Participants will be divided into two groups: an experimental group receiving the health literacy program and a control group receiving standard care. The study will measure improvements in health literacy levels and CKD prevention behaviors over a specific period. It is expected that the program will help patients better manage their medications and reduce the risk of developing kidney complications.

Background: Patients with polypharmacy are at a higher risk of drug-induced kidney injury. Enhancing health literacy is a key strategy to empower these patients to engage in protective health behaviors.

Objectives: 1) To compare health literacy scores before and after participating in the program. 2) To compare CKD prevention behaviors between the experimental and control groups.

Methodology: This is a quasi-experimental study with a pre-test/post-test design.

Experimental Group: Receives the "Health Literacy Promotion Program," which includes educational sessions, skill-building for medication management, and follow-up support.

Control Group: Receives routine nursing care and standard health education. Intervention Details: The program focuses on 6 aspects of health literacy: access, understanding, communication, questioning, decision-making, and practice.

Data Collection: Data will be collected using validated questionnaires for health literacy and CKD prevention behavior at baseline and after the intervention (e.g., at week 12).

Analysis: Descriptive statistics and t-tests (Independent and Paired) will be used to evaluate the program's effectiveness.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients aged 55-74 years diagnosed with non-communicable diseases.
• Currently taking 5 or more medications daily (Polypharmacy) for at least 6 months.
• Have at least one risk factor for chronic kidney disease (e.g., Hypertension or Diabetes).
• Able to communicate, read, and write in Thai.
• Willing to participate in the 8-week program and follow-up assessments.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients already diagnosed with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) stage 3 - 5.
• Having severe cognitive impairment or psychiatric disorders that prevent participation.
• Having severe complications or being in an unstable clinical condition.
• Planning to move out of the study area during the 12-week study period.