Abstract
Introduction: This study assessed the feasibility of nurse-delivered cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Methods and analysis: A mixed-method design was used, and 20 participants were randomly allocated to high-intensity CBT (n=5), guided self-help (n=5), self-help only (n=5) or treatment as usual (n=5). Ten intervention participants completed semi-structured interviews. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics; qualitative data were analysed using group thematic analysis. Results: Barriers to the interventions were lack of therapist contact, negative preconceptions about treatment and factors relating to supporting materials. Treatment facilitators included therapist-facilitated relaxation, narratives located within self-help materials and social support mechanisms. Conclusion: Further development of the low-intensity interventions in collaboration with service users is required to improve intervention acceptability and relevance.
Highlights
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a functional gastrointestinal disorder characterised by symptoms such as altered bowel habit, bloating and abdominal pain (Lacy et al, 2016)
The provision of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) interventions for patients with functional gastrointestinal disorders is lacking in many health care systems and, in the context of our own practice, NHS patients within the UK have no routine access to CBT interventions for the treatment of IBS
Strengths and limitations This study provides an insight into the use of LI-CBT interventions when implemented during a feasibility study within gastrointestinal clinics
Summary
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a functional gastrointestinal disorder characterised by symptoms such as altered bowel habit, bloating and abdominal pain (Lacy et al, 2016). People with IBS may be troubled by concerns relating to the cause and the effects of their condition (North et al, 2007), report a poor quality of life and often experience work-related absenteeism (Halder et al, 2004). Psychosocial factors and stress are associated with the onset of the disorder and related to the severity and prognosis of IBS symptoms (Gwee et al, 1996). The provision of CBT interventions for patients with functional gastrointestinal disorders is lacking in many health care systems and, in the context of our own practice, NHS patients within the UK have no routine access to CBT interventions for the treatment of IBS.
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