Which option is a SMART objective example for adherence to antihypertensive medication?

• A. The patient will take medications as prescribed.
• B. The patient will feel better.
• C. The patient will attend follow-up appointments.
• D. The patient will demonstrate 90% adherence to prescribed antihypertensive meds over the next 60 days as documented in medication reconciliation.

Answer: (D)

SMART objectives require a clear, specific target that can be measured within a defined time frame and is directly linked to the behavior you want to change. The best choice does exactly that for antihypertensive medication adherence: it specifies a quantifiable adherence level (90%), uses an objective measurement method (documented in medication reconciliation), and sets a time frame (60 days). This makes the goal concrete and assessable.

The other options fall short because they are vague or not directly tied to adherence. “Take medications as prescribed” lacks a measurable percentage and a deadline, so progress can’t be tracked objectively. “Feel better” is subjective and not a direct measure of whether the patient is adhering to the prescribed regimen. “Attend follow-up appointments” relates to a different behavior and doesn’t specify adherence to the antihypertensive meds, nor does it include a measurable target or timeframe.