Effect of Orem-based self-care education program on disease-related problems in patients with multiple sclerosis: A clinical trial

Background: Globally, multiple sclerosis (MS) is one of the leading causes of disability and is associated with a wide range of complications. Therefore, identifying patient needs and providing education based on an appropriate nursing model seems crucial. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the effect of Orem-based self-care education program on MS complications.

Methods: This clinical trial was conducted on 88 MS patients, who were members of MS Association of Zahedan, Iran, during 2014-15. The subjects were randomly selected through convenience sampling method and divided into intervention and control groups (n=44). In total, nine 45-minute group training sessions were held for the intervention group based on the patient needs and Orem’ model. Before and three months after the intervention, the form of assessment of disease complications was completed by both groups. Data analysis was performed in SPSS, version 16, using Chi-squared test, as well as paired and independent t-tests.

Results: After the intervention, all the reported complications, including balance disorder, muscle cramp, fatigue, urinary incontinence, constipation, fecal incontinence, myasthenia, reduced memory, and double vision, significantly improved (P<0.001), except for blurred vision.

Conclusion: Implementing self-care programs based on Orem’s model ameliorated disease complications in MS patients. Thus, we recommend healthcare organizations use this self-care program as an easy and beneficial intervention.