Pilot study of participating in a fatigue management programme for clients with multiple sclerosis.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this study was to examine the experience of participating in a community-based fatigue management programme for people with multiple sclerosis (MS).


METHODS
Eight people with MS who participated in an 8-week community-based fatigue management programme were interviewed using a semi-structured, open-ended interview protocol. Data were analysed using constant comparative analysis informed by a phenomenological perspective.


RESULTS
Participants experienced ownership, active participation and empowerment. Participants' fatigue was legitimised and validated, and participants described a shared experience and shared voice. Outcomes identified by participants included: lifestyle and occupational changes, altered thinking about fatigue and the development of social supports.


CONCLUSIONS
Participants' experience of the community-based fatigue management programme was described in positive terms with unanticipated benefits and outcomes described.
Twomey
Frances
F
Brothers of Charity (Southern Service), Lota, Glanmire, Ireland. frantwomey@eircom.net
Robinson
Katie
K
D055812:Community-Based Participatory Research; D019468:Disease Management; D005221:Fatigue / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy*; D006801:Humans; D008019:Life Style; D009103:Multiple Sclerosis / Q000150:complications / Q000534:rehabilitation* / Q000628:therapy; D009788:Occupational Therapy; D010865:Pilot Projects; D011209:Power, Psychological; D036301:Qualitative Research; D012046:Rehabilitation / Q000458:organization & administration*; D012934:Social Isolation; D012944:Social Support