Self-management of chronic diseases: a concept analysis

Abstract Introduction. Due to coronavirus disease 2019, which affected the provision of nursing care to chronic patients, the self-management of patients has increased through the use of modern technology. To support the self-management of chronic patients, it is essential to analyze and clarify the concept of self-management before using it in practice. Methods. A literature search was performed in the Web of Science, PubMed, CINAHL, ScienceDirect, Sage Journals, MEDLINE, Cochrane Library databases, in addition to Google Scholar and COBISS using the keywords “concept,” “self-care,” “chronic disease,” and “nurse.” Qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods research, books, and abstracts, related to the selected concept in English were included in the review. Studies were ranked according to the hierarchy of evidence. Concept analysis by Cutcliffe and McKenna was used. Results. Of the 2974 identified studies, 31 were included in the analysis. Seven attributes were identified: assessment of physical and emotional signs and symptoms, response to changes, consultation with the health care provider, communication, goals, attention to treatment effectiveness, and awareness of the situation. The antecedents are learning, motivation, habits, cultural and religious values, self-efficacy, literacy. The consequences concept includes improving individuals’ clinical outcomes and quality of life and reducing public health costs. Conclusions. As nursing care focuses more and more on self-management of the disease and not just on treatment, patients are increasingly using different techniques to manage their disease. By incorporating the concept of self-management of chronic disease into modern technology, we can contribute to patient care.