This randomized controlled interventional study aims to evaluate the effect of structured education and telephone counseling on immunosuppressive medication adherence among kidney transplant recipients. Poor adherence to immunosuppressive therapy after kidney transplantation is a major risk factor for acute rejection, graft loss, and increased morbidity. Education and behavioral support interventions delivered by nurses may improve medication understanding, adherence behaviors, and self-management skills.
In this trial, 60 participants will be randomly assigned to either an intervention group receiving individualized education, an immunosuppressive medication adherence booklet, and scheduled telephone counseling sessions, or a control group receiving routine clinical care. Adherence will be assessed using the Immunosuppressive Medication Adherence Scale and biological monitoring through tacrolimus level variability over 8 weeks. Additional outcomes include changes in medication knowledge scores based on pre-test and post-test assessments.
The study will contribute evidence regarding whether nurse-led telephone counseling and structured education can enhance adherence, improve clinical follow-up, and support long-term graft success in kidney transplant patients.
Adult kidney transplant recipients aged 18 years or older
At least 1 month post-kidney transplantation
Able to provide informed consent
Cognitively intact and oriented to person, place, and time
Under 18 years of age
Severe cognitive impairment preventing participation
Inability to communicate effectively (hearing or speech limitations without support)
Patients who do not meet the post-transplant time threshold (less than 1 month)