Effect of Educational Program on Knowledge and Functional Status of Patients with Rheumatoid arthritis

Abstract

Educational program for patients with rheumatoid arthritis is considered a strategy for promoting their knowledge and functional status at home and in the community. Aim: the study aimed to determine the effect of educational program on knowledge and functional status of patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Study design: a quasi-experimental design was utilized to conduct this study. Setting: This study was conducted at rheumatoid outpatient clinic and rehabilitation department of Ain Shames University Hospital, affiliated to Ain Shams University Subject: A purposive sample of 115 patients with rheumatoid arthritis from the rheumatoid outpatient clinic and rehabilitation department of Ain Shams University Hospital was recruited for conducting this study. Data collection: 1) Patients’ socio-demographic and clinical characteristics sheet. 2) Rheumatoid arthritis knowledge assessment questionnaire 3) Health assessment questionnaire sheet. Results: the present study revealed that, there is a significant difference between patient in the study regarding their knowledge and functional status pre and implantation of educational program. Conclusion: Application of educational program regarding rheumatoid arthritis has a positive effect on improving knowledge and improving functional status of patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Recommendations Setup a project that aims to improve patients' care by implementing evidence based practice. Key wards: educational program, knowledge, functional status, rheumatoid arthritis.