Engagement strategies for self-care and safety in the use of medicines: Synthesis of qualitative evidence

Abstract

The role of patients is an essential component for medication safety, involving error prevention and informed decision-making. This study aimed to identify strategies for engaging patients in self-care related to medication safety. This synthesis of qualitative evidence was registered in the Open Science Framework and followed the recommendations of the Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research checklist. The scientific databases used in the search were the Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde, Embase, Medline via PubMed, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library. Nine articles were selected for synthesis. The strategies for engaging patients in self-care were mostly associated with health education through workshops, training, and spaces for sharing experiences about medication use, followed by reminders that also used digital devices. It is understood that a patient-centered approach, with active listening and respect for sociocultural contexts, strengthens participation in care, promotes autonomy, and contributes to comprehensive and safe health.