However , the 4 generic scales would benefit from further validation in patients with RA , the VAS requires st and ardization , and the MAF would benefit from further sensitivity data .
OBJECTIVE Fatigue is an important outcome for patients with rheumatoid arthritis ( RA ) .
The purpose of this study was to identify the scales being used to measure RA fatigue , and to systematic ally examine the evidence for their validation .
Patients' perceptions of fatigue in rheumatoid arthritis: overwhelming, uncontrollable, ignored.
OBJECTIVE Fatigue is commonly reported by patients with rheumatoid arthritis ( RA ) but is rarely a treatment target . The aim of this study was to explore the concept of fatigue as experienced by patients with RA . METHODS Fifteen patients with RA and fatigue ( > or = 7 on a 10-cm visual analog scale ) were individually interviewed and asked about the description , cause , consequence , and management of fatigue . Transcripts were systematic ally analyzed by 2 research ers independently , relevant phrases were coded , and earlier transcripts were checked for the emerging codes . A r and om sample of analyses were independently review ed . A total of 191 codes arising from the data were grouped into 46 categories and overarching themes . RESULTS Vivid descriptions reflect 2 types of fatigue : severe weariness and dramatic overwhelming fatigue . RA fatigue is different from normal tiredness because it is extreme , often not earned , and unresolving . Participants described physical , cognitive , and emotional components and attributed fatigue to inflammation , working the joints harder , and unrefreshing sleep . Participants described far-reaching effects on physical activities , emotions , relationships , and social and family roles . Participants used self-management strategies but with limited success . Most did not discuss fatigue with clinicians but when they did , they felt it was dismissed . Participants held negative views on the management of fatigue . CONCLUSION The data show that RA fatigue is important , intrusive , and overwhelming , and patients struggle to manage it alone . These data on the complexity of fatigue experiences will help clinicians design measures , interventions , and self-managment guidance
However , the 4 generic scales would benefit from further validation in patients with RA , the VAS requires st and ardization , and the MAF would benefit from further sensitivity data .
OBJECTIVE Fatigue is an important outcome for patients with rheumatoid arthritis ( RA ) .
The purpose of this study was to identify the scales being used to measure RA fatigue , and to systematic ally examine the evidence for their validation .