An exploration of the perceived effects of a support group for individuals with rheumatoid arthritis.

PURPOSE: To explore the effects of attendance at a peer support group on the quality of life of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients. DATA SOURCES: There were 23 participants recruited for the study. A series of six monthly support groups lasting approximately 60 min, with the researcher as a participant observer, were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Following the sixth support group session, the researcher interviewed participants who had attended a minimum of four sessions. The evaluation interviews were also audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Content analysis of the support group transcripts and the evaluation interview transcripts was performed to identify themes related to the quality of life of the participants with respect to their diagnosis of RA.
CONCLUSION: Analysis of the support group and evaluation interview transcripts indicated an improvement in the quality of life of the participants through improved social support and empowerment of the participants with increased knowledge and self-efficacy. ©2014 American Association of Nurse Practitioners.