An exploration of patients' experiences of anti-TNF therapy.
OBJECTIVE
To explore the experience of rheumatoid arthritis patients receiving anti-tumour necrosis factor (anti-TNF) therapy on physical, psychological and social well-being.


METHODS
Seven patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) who received six months of infliximab were interviewed in depth by one researcher to identify their experiences of this treatment. The interviews were tape-recorded and analysed using Colaizzi's procedural steps.


RESULTS
Four main categories were identified from the interview relating to the patient's experience of anti-TNF therapy. These included: The impact of living with RA on physical, psychological and social function. The influence of anti-TNF therapy on physical, psychological and social function. The experience of attending for treatment. The impact of discontinuing anti-TNF treatment.


CONCLUSIONS
All seven patients experienced benefits from receiving anti-TNF therapy. These benefits were not maintained once the treatment period was completed.
Edwards
Jill
J
Ashfield Health Care Ltd, Ashby de la Zouch, Leicestershire. jedwards@ashfieldhealthcare.com