A structured self-management protocol on awareness, disability and complications among patients with rheumatoid arthritis receiving biological therapy: A quasi-experimental study

Abd Elsalam, Shimaa Nabil and ElMetwaly, Rasha Mohammed and Ebada, Reham Adel and Khalefa, Arzak Mohammed and Al Amri, Warda Amur and Mohammed, Muna Saeed (2025) A structured self-management protocol on awareness, disability and complications among patients with rheumatoid arthritis receiving biological therapy: A quasi-experimental study. World Journal of Advanced Research and Reviews, 27 (1). pp. 1180-1189. ISSN 2581-9615

Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic condition that impacts many aspects of life. Biological therapy usually is used to treat moderate to severe disease conditions. Education and support could help people with RA to foster strategies to cope with the disease and its related complications. Aim: To evaluate the effect of a structured self-management protocol on awareness, disability and complications among patients with rheumatoid arthritis receiving biological therapy. Methods: A quasi-experimental design was utilized. A Hundred twenty patients with rheumatoid arthritis currently receiving biological therapy were enrolled from the Rheumatic Disease Unit & Outpatient clinic, divided into control and study groups (60 for each). The study group received a structured self-care protocol developed by the authors including educational sessions, printed materials, and weekly follow-up for 8 weeks. Awareness and disability levels were measured pre- and post-intervention using a validated RA awareness questionnaire, the Health Assessment Questionnaire Disability Index (HAQ-DI), and Biological therapy complications scale (BTCS). Results: The study group showed statistically significant improvements in awareness scores and a significant decrease in disability scores and biological therapy complications at p<0.001 compared to the control group. Conclusion and Recommendations: The structured self-management protocol significantly improved awareness and reduced disability in RA patients receiving biological therapy. Incorporating such protocols into routine care is recommended to enhance patient outcomes.