Impact of self-management training on quality of life, medication adherence, and self-efficacy among rheumatoid arthritis patients

Introduction

Rheumatoid Arthritis(RA) can result in significant joint destruction and work disability which needs physical and psychosocial adjustment to deal with pain, and fatigue.

Methods

True experimental parallel arm design with a pre-test post-test wait-listed control group was used to assess the impact of self-management training on Quality of life, medication adherence and self-efficacy among patients with RA. Participants were randomly allocated to the study(70) or control(70)group by simple randomization by the researcher. The study group underwent a self-management training consisting of six sessions over a 12-week period, while the control group received routine care. Importantly, the research assistant responsible for outcome assessment remained blinded to the treatment allocation at 1st, 3rd and 5th month post intervention using Short form- 36, Compliance Questionnaire, Rheumatology and Arthritis self efficacy scale.

Results

The SMT led to significant improvements in QoL-physical components including Pain (p = 0.001, partial eta squared(η²) = 0.372) and General Health (p = 0.001, η² = 0.320). Significant between-group differences were observed for Pain (p = 0.007), while other measures showed no differences. Mental health components also improved significantly in the study group, particularly in Energy (p = 0.001, η² = 0.344). Medication adherence improved initially but stabilized over time. The study group showed significant improvements in self-efficacy for pain, function, and other symptoms (p < 0.009), with large effect sizes and sustained progress.

Conclusion

By empowering patients with knowledge, skills, and confidence to effectively manage their condition, such health educations can contribute significantly improve overall health outcomes.