Which nursing action is most effective in helping a college student adhere to an ART regimen?

The nursing action that emphasizes checking the patient's class schedule to help decide when the drugs should be taken is most effective in supporting adherence to an antiretroviral therapy (ART) regimen. This approach takes into account the individual’s unique lifestyle, specifically their academic responsibilities and daily routine. By aligning the medication schedule with the student’s class timetable, the nurse supports the patient's ability to integrate medication adherence into their life in a practical and manageable way.

Understanding the difficulty that college students face in balancing academic, social, and health-related commitments is crucial. A tailored approach that considers personal schedules helps mitigate missed doses and irregular intake, which are common challenges in this population. When patients can conveniently take their medications around their existing commitments, they are more likely to stay consistent with their ART regimen, leading to better health outcomes.

Other choices, while potentially useful, do not address the day-to-day realities that influence the student’s ability to adhere to their regimen in as practical a manner. Providing information about side effects is important for informed decision-making, reminding them of the importance of medications reinforces understanding but may not change behavior, and encouraging a support group can be beneficial for emotional support, yet may not directly impact daily adherence as effectively as personalized scheduling does.