Effect of energy conservation strategies on fatigue and daily living activities among patients with systemic lupus erythematosus

Abstract

Background Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease, with a significant effect on function, daily living activities, work ability, and patients’ quality of life. Aim To evaluate the effect of energy conservation strategies on fatigue and daily living activities among patients with SLE. Research hypotheses H1: there will be a significant difference in the mean scores of fatigue among the study group that received energy conservation strategies compared with the control group that received routine hospital care. H2: there will be significant difference in the mean scores of daily living activities among the study group that received energy conservation strategies compared with the control group that received routine hospital care. Design Pre–posttest nonequivalent control group quasi-experimental design was used. Sample A convenient sample of 60 patients with SLE was recruited along 6 months, at one teaching hospital affiliated to Cairo University. Tools Three tools were used to collect data: Structured Interview Questionnaire, Global Fatigue Index, and Barthel Index of Activities of Daily Living. Results There was a statistically significant difference in the mean scores of fatigue as well as daily living activities among the study group that received energy conservation sessions when compared with the control group that received routine hospital care. Conclusion Energy conservation strategies could be effective in decreasing fatigue level and improving the level of independence during practicing daily living activities. Recommendation The energy conservation strategies should be applied for the patients with SLE in the early course of the disease to have a maximum benefit.