Evaluation of a rheumatoid arthritis patient education program: impact on knowledge and self-efficacy.
We have evaluated the effects of an education program on the knowledge and self-efficacy of 51 rheumatoid arthritis patients, using two previously validated questionnaires. At completion of the program, both knowledge and self-efficacy were significantly improved and this was maintained at follow-up. However, there was no correlation between knowledge and self-efficacy at baseline and follow-up, suggesting that these variables improved independently of each other. We conclude that education programs are a worthwhile means of improving the non-medical causes of morbidity in rheumatoid arthritis patients and that the two instruments utilized are a valuable means of both demonstrating effectiveness and quality assurance.
Davis
P
P
Busch
A J
AJ
Lowe
J C
JC
Taniguchi
J
J
Djkowich
B
B
D001172:Arthritis, Rheumatoid / Q000523:psychology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D015397:Program Evaluation; D012649:Self Concept