The role of Self-concept Mode of Roy's Adaptation Model on adherence of diet regimen in heart failure patients

Although the low-sodium diet is a fundamental nonpharmacologic component of heart failure (HF) care, most persons with HF have considerable difficulty in following such a diet. Despite the high prevalence of nonadherence to the low-sodium diet, little is known about HF atients’nonadherence. This information is vital to the design and implementation of effective interventions to enhance adherence to a low-sodium diet. Accordingly, the purpose of this study was to explore the relations between self concept according to Roy’s self-concept mode theory and adherence to sodium restricted diet in heart failure patients. In a descriptive correlational design, a convenience sample of 108 heart failure patients from two major medical and academic centers, affiliated with Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Iran, were selected. Validity and reliability of questionnaires including cognitive perception of self concept according to Roy adaptation model and the adherence questionnaire were calculated after pilot study. Gathering data was done with questionnaires. Direct relationship between challenge to self-concept and adherence to diet regimens (p = 0.001) (r=(36/0- was noted; threat to self concept had an inverse relationship (r=(35/0 (p = 0.001). In other words, more challenge and less threat to self concept and its components were associated with more adherence to diet regimen. Through educational and counseling programs, nurses can help their clients to perceive heart failure regimes in ways that are less threatening. Additionally, they could work to empower patients to face heart failure as a challenge, which may enhance their adherence to diet regimens.