Perception regarding occupational therapy : view of patients with rheumatoid arthritis

Abstract

Abstract Background: Perception is considered to be an important contributor in the relationship between physical and psychological factors in rheumatoid arthritis

(RA). Occupational therapy (OT) aims at improving performance of daily living tasks, facilitating successful adjustments in lifestyle, and preventing losses of function. There is evidence that it can improve function in the short term in early rheumatoid arthritis, but the long-term effects are uncertain. This study examined the patient’s perception of RA about occupational therapy intervention. Objectives of the study: The objectives were to find out the understanding of the participant about occupational therapy; the common problem to perform activities of daily living before receiving occupational therapy; the present situation after receiving occupational therapy intervention; expectation of RA patients after receiving occupational therapy intervention. Methodology: This retrospective study was conducted by using qualitative content analysis of qualitative method, with 9 RA patients (6 women and 3 men). Participants were selected by using convenience sampling. Data was collected using face to face interview with a semi-structured question. Result and Discussion: Six major themes were identified that positively influenced perceptions. These included: (i) Clear understanding about RA but most of them had started to take OT above 5 years later; ( ii) OT is a one kind of exercise and it helps to perform daily living activity; (iii) Try to complete the activity and most of time depends on others help; (iv) Some improvement occurs after taking OT but the main purpose to take it for keeping the condition same stage; ( v) Unable to participate in some leisure due to physical limitation and some participants feel sad; (vi) Most of participants were satisfied; They were hoped for becoming cure same as before. Self-management significantly increased among patients after receiving occupational therapy intervention. Physical and psychological wellness was often affected by individual’s adaptation to RA. Conclusion: The themes identified can be influenced by Occupational Therapists in the management of the RA patient. Functional ability remains reasonably good for many patients within first five years who has taken OT services, so preventive benefits is also better and longer follow up is needed. After five years it is much difficult to remediate or compensate for engaging the patients in activities of daily living after receiving OT services. But this study shows that most of the participants come in late.