EFFECT OF AN EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM FOR ADOLESCENTS WITH EPILEPSY ON THEIR QUALITY OF LIFE AND SELF-MANAGEMENT SKILLS

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Pediatric Nursing Department, Faculty of Nursing, Mansoura University

2 Pediatric Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Mansoura University

Abstract

Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder, which restricts the patient in a range of activities, it has a profound effect on the health and quality of life. Epilepsy may limit the development of independence, social functioning and peer relationships, especially for adolescents it considered a powerful trigger of many psychological and social problems. The pediatric nurse has an important role in helping adolescents to overcome these problems through developing a strategy ensuring the adherence to self-management skills which consequently improve their quality of life. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of an educational program for adolescents with epilepsy on their quality of life and self-management skills. Design: Quasi-experimental design for one group was utilized in carrying out the study at the Pediatric Neurological Unit and Epilepsy Clinic of Mansoura University Children's Hospital, on a sample of 55 adolescents diagnosed with epilepsy for at least 6 months. Data collection Tools: Data were collected by using three tools: Structured Interview Questionnaire Sheet, Quality of Life in Epilepsy for Adolescents Questionnaire and Epilepsy Self-Management Scale. Results: There was statistically significant positive correlation between the studied adolescents’ total QOL scores and their total self-management skills scores before implementing the educational program, and after 3 & 6 months of the program implementation. Conclusion: Adolescents with epilepsy had better quality of life and self-management skills after implementation of the educational program. Recommendations: Regular and continuous health educational programs are essential for improving the adolescents' QOL and self-management skills.

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