Perception of Humanized Nursing Care and Adherence to Antituberculosis Treatment in Lima, Peru

Abstract

Objective: To analyze the association between the perception of humanized nursing care and adherence to antituberculosis treatment among people with tuberculosis attending three healthcare facilities in Lima, Peru.

Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted among 70 people with tuberculosis between February and March 2026. The perception of humanized care was assessed using the Perception of Humanized Nursing Care Behaviors instrument, third version (PCHE-III), adapted to the study context. Adherence was determined based on records of doses received and scheduled. Frequencies and percentages were calculated, and Pearson’s chi-square and Fisher’s exact tests were applied, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05.

Results: Overall, 85.7% of participants were adherent to treatment, and 70.0% reported a favorable overall perception of humanized care. A favorable perception was more frequent among adherent than non-adherent participants (75.0% vs. 40.0%), although the difference did not reach statistical significance (p = 0.056). The qualities of nursing practice were associated with adherence (86.7% vs. 40.0%; p = 0.003). No associations were found for openness to communication (p = 0.477) or willingness to provide care (p = 0.121).

Conclusions: Although the overall perception of humanized care was not significantly associated with treatment adherence, the qualities of nursing practice showed a significant association. These findings highlight the importance of dignified care, trust, and ongoing support throughout antituberculosis treatment.

Keywords: Tuberculosis; Treatment Adherence and Compliance; Humanization of Assistance.