Abstract
BACKGROUND: Thyroid disorders represent a prevalent chronic disease category in the general population and become more prevalent with age. Adherence to treatment and regular follow-up are critical issues determining the recovery of these patients. The present study aimed to determine the impact of self-care training using the teach-back method combined with telephone follow-up on adherence to treatment in patients with hypothyroidism. METHODS: A randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted in 2024. A total of 62 eligible patients with hypothyroidism visiting Vali-e-Asr Hospital, affiliated with Birjand University of Medical Sciences, were selected and randomly assigned to two groups. The intervention group members received self-care training using the teach-back method over two sessions, each lasting 45 to 60 min. The control group only received the routine care provided by the center. Data were collected using Fatemi et al.’s Adherence to Treatment Questionnaire and a demographic characteristics form. Data were analyzed using SPSS software version 23 and independent t-test, Mann-Whitney, Repeated measures ANOVA, Friedman non-parametric test, Fisher’s Exact test and chi-square test. RESULTS: According to findings, 80.6% (n = 25) of the participants were women. The mean age of the intervention and the control group was 45.42 ± 15.74 and 43.97 ± 15.77 years, respectively, with no statistically significant difference (P = 0.72). The results showed a statistically significant difference in the mean overall adherence score (P < 0.001) and its components (P < 0.001) between the two groups. The effect size for all variables immediately and 2 months after the intervention, based on Cohen’s d formula, is greater than 0.80. CONCLUSION: It seems that self-care training using the teach-back method has a significant impact on adherence to treatment in patients with hypothyroidism. Therefore, it is recommended to use teach-back method alongside other educational methods to enhance adherence to treatment in patients with hypothyroidism. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT20241125063855N1, Registration Date:22/12/2024).