title: Problems in functioning from the patient perspective using the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) as a reference.
abstract: We conducted a qualitative, multicenter study using a focus group design to explore the lived experiences of persons with any kind of primary sleep disorder with regard to functioning and contextual factors using six open-ended questions related to the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) components. We classified the results using the ICF as a frame of reference. We identified the meaningful concepts within the transcribed data and then linked them to ICF categories according to established linking rules. The six focus groups with 27 participants yielded a total of 6986 relevant concepts, which were linked to a total of 168 different second-level ICF categories. From the patient perspective, the ICF components: (1) Body Functions; (2) Activities & Participation; and (3) Environmental Factors were equally represented; while (4) Body Structures appeared poignantly less frequently. Out of the total number of concepts, 1843 concepts (26%) were assigned to the ICF component Personal Factors, which is not yet classified but could indicate important aspects of resource management and strategy development of those who have a sleep disorder. Therefore, treatment of patients with sleep disorders must not be limited to anatomical and (patho-)physiological changes, but should also consider a more comprehensive view that includes patient's demands, strategies and resources in daily life and the contextual circumstances surrounding the individual.
authors.affiliation: ICF Research Branch of the WHO Collaborating Center for the Family of International Classifications at the German Institute of Medical Documentation and Information (DIMDI) at Swiss Paraplegic Research, Nottwil, Switzerland. felix.gradinger@paranet.ch
authors.forename: Felix
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Gradinger
authors.forename: Barbara
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Köhler
authors.forename: Ramin
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Khatami
authors.forename: Johannes
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Mathis
authors.forename: Alarcos
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Cieza
authors.forename: Claudio
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Bassetti
mesh_terms: D000203:Activities of Daily Living / Q000523:psychology*; D004185:Disability Evaluation; D005260:Female; D017144:Focus Groups; D006801:Humans; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D012893:Sleep Wake Disorders / Q000523:psychology*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires