Sticking to the Shots: Why Rheumatic Heart Disease Patients Might Skip Benzathine Penicillin G

Benzathine penicillin G (BPG) is a lifesaver for people with rheumatic heart disease (RHD). It stops the disease from getting worse. But getting patients to stick to their BPG shots is a global problem. This review looked at why patients might not take their BPG and what helps them stay on track. The review used the COM-B model, which stands for Capability, Opportunity, and Motivation for Behavior. This model helps understand what stops people from doing something. First, let's talk about capability. Some patients might not understand why BPG is important. They might not know how to get to the clinic or how to take the shot. This lack of knowledge and skills can make it hard for them to stick to their treatment.

Next, opportunity matters. If it's tough to get to the clinic or if the clinic is far away, patients might miss their shots. Sometimes, there might not be enough nurses to give the shots. These problems make it harder for patients to get their BPG. Finally, motivation plays a big role. Patients might not see the point of taking BPG if they feel fine. They might worry about side effects or think the shots are painful. These fears can make them less likely to take their BPG. But it's not all bad news. Some things help patients stick to their BPG. For example, education can boost patients' understanding of why BPG is important. Making clinics easier to get to can help too. And if nurses explain the benefits of BPG and listen to patients' concerns, that can motivate them to take their shots. So, understanding why patients might not take their BPG and what helps them stay on track is key to making sure they get the care they need.

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