Effect of a nurse-led online patient support program on fatigue, sleep and quality of life in patients with multiple sclerosis: a quasi-experimental study
摘要
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is becoming more prevalent. Physical impairments and sleep issues, particularly fatigue, diminish these patients’ quality of life. One of the most successful and long-lasting strategies for managing symptoms is patient education. The aim of this study was to evaluate effect of a nurse-led online support program on fatigue, sleep, and quality of life in patients with multiple sclerosis (PwMS).
MethodsThis quasi-experimental study was conducted in the MS outpatient clinic of a university hospital in Istanbul. Patients participated in a five-week nurse-led online support program and were assessed using the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), and EQ-5D Quality of Life Scale before, after, and at 3 and 6 months. Patients’ step counts were also recorded.
ResultsThirty patients who completed the program were included in the study. Compared to baseline, FSS scores and number of steps improved (p = 0.008, p = 0.008). PSQI scores also improved (p = 0.026). Although there was no difference in EQ-5D symptom scores, the EQ-5D visual analogue scale scores tended to improve (p = 0.085).
ConclusionsA nurse-led online support program may be a feasible and resource-efficient approach to managing fatigue and sleep disturbances in PwMS, especially in settings with limited access to care. Larger controlled studies are needed to confirm these findings.
Trial registrationThis study was registered on ClinicalTrials.gov on August 24, 2023 (NCT06166043).