The effect of tele-nursing counseling on functioning and medication adherence in individuals with bipolar disorder: A randomized controlled trial.

What was studied

This randomized trial tested tele-nursing counseling in adults with bipolar disorder. It looked at everyday functioning and medication adherence. 70 people took part, 35 in each group. They were seen at a community mental health center. The counseling group had weekly phone talks and supportive text messages. The control group kept standard clinical care.

What they found

At the end of the program, the groups differed significantly in functioning. The adjusted difference was -6.8, with a range of -9.8 to -3.7. The groups also differed significantly in medication adherence. The adjusted difference was -2.11, with a range of -2.4 to -1.8. Both p values were under 0.001. Scores were adjusted for baseline.

What it means for patients

The authors say tele-nursing counseling may be an influential supportive tool. They say it may help with functioning and medication adherence in people with bipolar disorder.

Why it is not certain yet

This was a small trial of 70 people. The trial was registered after the fact. The abstract does not say how long the benefits last. It does not explain what the score changes mean in daily life. A small trial may miss real effects.

Source

The effect of tele-nursing counseling on functioning and medication adherence in individuals with bipolar disorder: A randomized controlled trial.

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