Coping and functional health status of patients with rheumatoid arthritis following an intervention program

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a progressive debilitating disease that over time can hinder daily functioning. Effects of RA can impose changes in coping mechanisms and functional health status (Savelkoul, De Witte, Candel, Van Der Tempel, & Van Den Borne, 2001). The purpose of this quasi-experimental study is to test the effects of an intervention program on rheumatoid arthritis (RA) on coping and functional health status with two groups of patients, one group with traditional patient education and the other group with a coping focused program. The framework is Lazarus and Folkman's Theory of Stress and Coping. A convenience sample of 60 patients diagnosed with classic or definitive RA will be selected from a rheumatology clinic. The Utrecht Coping Questionnaire will measure coping effectiveness and the SIP68 will measure functional health status. The procedures for the protection of human subjects will be followed and all data will remain anonymous. Findings will provide information for health care providers about outcomes of an intervention program on coping and functional health status for individuals with RA.