Self-management Research Articles

Considering different Montreal Cognitive Assessment cutoff scores for older adults with asthma.

Background: There is a greater prevalence of cognitive impairment among ethnic and/or racial minorities, and cognitive impairment is a barrier to asthma self-management (SM) behaviors and outcomes in older adults. Objective: The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between cognitive impairment, assessed by using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), and asthma SM behaviors and outcomes in a sample of predominantly Black and Latino participants. In addition, we evaluated whether using two different MoCA cutoff scores influenced the association between cognitive impairment and asthma outcomes. Methods: Baseline cross-sectional data were extracted from a longitudinal study of older adults with asthma (N = 165) ages ≥60 years. Cognition was assessed by using the MoCA. Asthma Control Questionnaire, asthma-related quality of life (AQOL), and inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) adherence were assessed by using self-report. ICS dosing was collected through chart review and inhaler technique was observed and rated. Results: Using established MoCA cutoff scores of 23 and 26 yielded 45% and 74% cognitive impairment rates, respectively. Cognitive impairment, defined by using the cutoff score of 23, was significantly associated with worse asthma control (p = 0.04) and worse ICS adherence (p = 0.01). With a cutoff score of 26, only AQOL was significantly associated with cognitive impairment (p = 0.03). Race and/or ethnicity moderated the relationship between cognitive impairment and asthma control with a MoCA cutoff score of 23, and between cognitive impairment and AQOL with a MoCA cutoff score of 26. Conclusion: Cognitive impairment in older adults with asthma is associated with important clinical outcomes, but this relationship is influenced by the cutoff score used to define cognitive impairment.

Using self‐management strategies to improve toothbrushing for adults in supported community living

AbstractHygiene is an important area related to personal health and socialization. Regular toothbrushing can prevent painful procedures related to tooth decay and gum disease and reduce bad breath and plaque that may interfere with social and professional acceptance. Unfortunately, many individuals with disabilities do not engage in regular and thorough preventative dental hygiene, placing them at risk for oral disease. Using a multiple baseline design, three participants who independently brushed their teeth but did not brush frequently or thoroughly were taught to self‐evaluate and record using a self‐management (SM) checklist. The findings of this study suggest that SM may be a helpful method for improving the frequency and quality of toothbrushing. Outcomes regarding supporting individuals to achieve maximal independence in these essential life skills are discussed.

Evaluation of an education program upon women's knowledge toward management of Breast Self – Examination(BSE)

To determine the evaluation of education program on women's knowledge regarding managing BSE. The present quasi- experimental study, Non-probability (purposive), sample consisting of (260) women who are employee, and students in both colleges (Nursing college, Medical and Health Techniques College). The sample consist of two groups, study group (130) including those in (Nursing college), and control group (130) in (Medical and Health Techniques College). A questionnaire was constructed which included, Demographic information, Reproductive information, Family history, Previous medical history, and information about women's knowledge toward management of breast self examination (BSE). Instrument validity and reliability was determined. Data were collected through the use of the questionnaire, the application of the educational program a post-test was done for the study only which use the lectures, booklets, training practice of BSE, and video film. Analysis of data was performed through the application of descriptive and inferential statistical data analysis approach. Revealed that the women in the study group had benefited from the implementation of the educational program; their knowledge regarding managing BSE was adequately improved and developed. The study illustrated significant difference between women's knowledge means in pre and post test periods regarding their managing for BSE. Implementation of proposed model of continuous medical education for women for BSE within the scope of their work.

The Spinal Cord Injury Self-Management Program: A Pilot.

People with chronic spinal cord injury (SCI) experience a higher rate of secondary health conditions (SHCs) which affect their health and well-being. Self-management (SM) is a proven intervention approach, but formal programs may need to be tailored for the SCI population to reflect their needs and values. We sought to examine the feasibility and acceptability of the Spinal Cord Injury Self-Management (SCISM) Program and estimate its effect. A total of 32 individuals with SCI participated in the program. The primary outcomes were feasibility, acceptability, SHCs, and goal attainment. Participants were assessed at baseline, postintervention, and 3-month follow-up. Findings indicated that the SCISM Program was feasible and acceptable for use with moderate positive effects on SHCs and large positive effects in goal attainment. People with chronic SCI want to continue improving SM skills. The SCISM Program is feasible, acceptable, and should be examined further to reduce SHCs following SCI.

"The Other Thousand Hours": A Spinal Cord Injury Self-Management Program Qualitative Analysis.

People with spinal cord injury experience secondary health conditions (SHCs) at a high rate which impacts life expectancy and functional performance. Self-management (SM) is an evidence-based approach to reduce the negative effects of SHCs, but prior SM programs have not been successful for the spinal cord injury (SCI) population. We sought to describe the experiences of participants completing a group-based telehealth program that is tailored to the SCI population: The Spinal Cord Injury Self-Management (SCISM) Program. We conducted interviews using Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis to examine participants' experiences. Twenty-two participants completed the interviews. Four themes ("A Sense of Community," "Being Held Accountable," "I'm Still Learning," and "Being Proactive Instead of Reactive") emerged. People with SCI require continued support throughout the chronic stage of SCI particularly at the community level to address mental health as well as the learning and application of SM skills through tailored interventions that foster community and accountability.

Migraine self-management at work: a qualitative study

BackgroundMigraine is common and can be highly disabling. Adequate migraine self-management (SM) can mitigate the potentially adverse health effects of migraine. However, adequate SM can be challenging to implement in everyday life, for instance, at the workplace. We aimed to explore how migraine SM is carried out at work and which occupational factors may determine effective implementation according to employees with migraine. We also explored the potential impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated re-arrangement of working conditions on migraine SM at work.MethodsWe conducted semi-structured qualitative interviews (08/2020–01/2021). Participants were eligible if they have worked for at least six months with a minimum of twenty hours per week and with a migraine diagnosis. The interviews were transcribed and content-analyzed using MAXQDA.ResultsMigraine SM was perceived to be influenced by social interactions at work (e.g., in terms of understanding vs. stigmatization), the level of job decision latitude (JDL, i.e., the extent to which one is able to influence work processes, e.g., when working from home), and workplace design (e.g., in terms of opportunities to withdraw from work). During the COVID-19 pandemic, especially increased JDL appeared to favorably influence migraine SM.ConclusionsMigraine SM at work is fostered or complicated by various psychosocial working conditions. By considering these facilitators and barriers, more migraine-friendly workplaces can be created.

Informing Digital Programs for Lupus Self-Management Education: A Systematic Scoping Review.

We describe the characteristics, content, and effectiveness of digital self-management (SM) education programs for lupus and other chronic conditions to identify gaps and inform the improvement of future programs in lupus. Three bibliographic databases were searched for articles published between May 2012 and April 2022. The search was cast to capture the breadth of digital SM education programs in the following conditions: lupus, epilepsy, fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosis, sickle cell anemia, Sjögren syndrome, psoriatic arthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis. Title and abstract screening, as well as full-text review, was conducted by two independent reviewers. Data extraction was first completed by one author charting all studies and then, a second time, by four members of the research team charting collaboratively. Of the 1,969 articles identified through the search, 14 met inclusion criteria. Two additional articles were included following bibliography review. The 16 articles represented 12 unique digital SM education programs. Programs covered five conditions: epilepsy (n = 3), fibromyalgia (n = 2), multiple sclerosis (n = 4), lupus (n = 1), and rheumatoid arthritis (n = 2). Most programs were asynchronous and internet-based (n = 9) with a prescribed sequence of content (n = 8). Peer, technical, or specialist support was offered in seven programs. Most programs demonstrated statistically significant improvement of symptoms in the intervention group (n = 8). This scoping review summarizes the current landscape for digital SM education programs in lupus and similar conditions. In lupus, further investigation will fill in the gaps around digital SM education needs, user experience, and evaluation of outcomes.

Exploring the relationship between illness perception, self-management and quality of life among HIV-positive men who have sex with men.

This study aimed to explore the mediating effect of self-management (SM) on the relationship between illness perception and quality of life (QOL) among Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive men who have sex with men (MSM). A cross-sectional study. We explored the effect of illness perception and self-management on QOL using the multiple regression model. Moreover, we conducted a simple mediation analysis to examine the role of SM in the relationship between illness perception and QOL. In addition, a parallel mediation analysis was performed to investigate the differences in domains of SM on the relationship between illness perception and QOL. Among 300 Chinese HIV-positive MSM, the mean score of SM was 39.9 ± 6.97, with a range of 14.0-54.0. The higher score in SM indicated a higher level of HIV SM. SM was negatively related to illness perception (r = -0.47) while positively related to QOL (r = 0.56). SM partially mediated the relationship between illness perception and QOL, accounting for 25.3% of the total effect. Specifically, both daily self-management health practices and the chronic nature of the self-management domain played a parallel role in mediating the relationship between illness perception and QOL. Our study demonstrated that SM was a significant factor influencing QOL among HIV-positive MSM. Focusing on daily self-management health practices and the chronic nature of self-management could be the potential key targets for enhancing HIV self-management strategies. This study emphasized the role of SM in the well-being of HIV-positive MSM and underscored the importance of developing interventions that integrate SM strategies to improve QOL in this population. No patient or public contribution.

Defining Self-Management for Solid Organ Transplantation Recipients: A Mixed Method Study.

Patients with Solid Organ Transplantations (SOTx) face long-term lifestyle adaptations, psychological and social adjustments, and complex self-care regimes to maintain health post-transplant. Self-management (SM) skills represent important aspects of nursing communication with SOTx patients; however, there is potential for SM to be defined narrowly in terms of medication adherence. The study presented here collated the existing definitions in a mixed method review in order to identify SM attributes for this group (including those unique to this population). Secondary analysis of a dataset and bibliographic analysis and an expert panel were used to develop a comprehensive working definition of SOTx patients. The analysis comprised critical interpretation of the evolving definition content, concepts, and contexts of application in current usages and over time. We identified eight definitions and 63 cited definition sources from bibliographic analysis. Findings identified limitations of the existing definitions. Population-specific attributes included optimisation of transplant outcomes, active engagement in healthy behaviours, control, structure, and discipline characteristics, and moderating factors of patient motivation, self-efficacy, and cognitive function. A critical appraisal of definitions indicated inadequately defined aspects such as setting, temporal dimension, concept interaction, interventions, and measurable outcomes. The bibliographic analysis highlighted the influence of broader chronic illness constructions of SM, underpinning the generalisable SM attributes in current definitions. Further research may advance the development of a definition in exploring the relevance of SOTx-specific attributes of the definition.

Impact of COPD stage on self management with COPD patients: The mediating role of symptoms management.

It is extremely important to determine the relationship between COPD and self-management (SM) in the disease process. However, the impact of symptom management (SpM) on this relationship is still unclear. The study aimed to examine the mediating role of SpM in the effect of the COPD stage on SM. A predictive correlational study was reported following the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) guidelines. This study was conducted between 15 February 2023 and 15 June 15 2023, with 306 patients. Data were collected using the Symptom Management Scale for Self-Efficacy and the Chronic Disease Self-Management Scale. Descriptive statistics and Process Macro Model 4 in the SPSS program were used for data analysis. Most of the patients were in the moderate stage of COPD; their SM scores were at low levels; SpM scores were at moderate levels. The model was significant, and the variables explained 65% of the model. The COPD stage was significantly positively correlated with SpM and negatively correlated with SM. There was a significant positive impact between SpM and SM. The positive and significant standardised indirect effect of SpM on SM evidenced a full mediating effect. Symptom management has a full mediating role in the effect of the COPD stage on SM. It was revealed that the level of SM can be increased by achieving SpM. Symptoms are vital in COPD. Progression of COPD increases symptom severity. Being successful in SpM greatly contributes to the achievement of self-management. Therefore, nurses should definitely consider symptom control in strengthening self-management in the care of patients with COPD. Patients' COPD stage was determined by a pulmonologist involved in the study. Voluntary patients with COPD hospitalised in the pulmonology clinic were included in the study.

Cost-Effectiveness of 2 Models of Pessary Care for Pelvic Organ Prolapse: Findings From the TOPSY Randomized Controlled Trial

ObjectivesPelvic organ prolapse is the descent of one or more reproductive organs from their normal position, causing associated negative symptoms. One conservative treatment option is pessary management. This study aimed to to investigate the cost-effectiveness of pessary self-management (SM) when compared with clinic-based care (CBC). A decision analytic model was developed to extend the economic evaluation. MethodsA randomized controlled trial with health economic evaluation. The SM group received a 30-minute SM teaching session, information leaflet, 2-week follow-up call, and a local helpline number. The CBC group received routine outpatient pessary appointments, determined by usual practice. The primary outcome for the cost-effectiveness analysis was incremental cost per quality-adjusted life year (QALY), 18 months post-randomization. Uncertainty was handled using nonparametric bootstrap analysis. In addition, a simple decision analytic model was developed using the trial data to extend the analysis over a 5-year period. ResultsThere was no significant difference in the mean number of QALYs gained between SM and CBC (1.241 vs 1.221), but mean cost was lower for SM (£578 vs £728). The incremental net benefit estimated at a willingness to pay of £20 000 per QALY gained was £564, with an 80.8% probability of cost-effectiveness. The modeling results were consistent with the trial analysis: the incremental net benefit was estimated as £4221, and the probability of SM being cost-effective at 5 years was 69.7%. ConclusionsResults suggest that pessary SM is likely to be cost-effective. The decision analytic model suggests that this result is likely to persist over longer durations.

Unraveling the mediation role of frailty and depression in the relationship between social support and self-management among Chinese elderly COPD patients:a cross-sectional study.

Self-management (SM) is the key factor in controlling the progression of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Previous studies have reported that majority of COPD patients later presented with frailty and mental health diseases, which affect self-management. This study attempted to explore the mediation role of depression and frailty between social support and self-management in elderly COPD population. Six hundred twenty-seven stable elderly COPD patients admitted to 5 public hospitals in Ningxia, China were selected as study subjects by convenience sampling method. Self-management, frailty, depression and social support were assessed using the COPD Self-management Scale (COPD-SMS), Frail Scale (FS), 15-item Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-15), and Social Support Rating Scale (SSRS) respectively. The Pearson correlation analysis was used to assess the correlation between variables. Additionally, SPSS25.0 PROCESS plugin Model 6 was used to explore the mediating effects of frailty and depression in the relationship between social support and self-management. The mean participant age was 72.87 ± 7.03years, 60.4% of participants were male. The mean total score of the COPD-SMS was 156.99 ± 25.15. Scores for the SSRS, FS, and GDS-15 were significantly correlated with COPD-SMS (p < 0.05). The analysis of the mediation effect demonstrated that social support has a direct predictive effect on self- management (β = 1.687, 95%CI: 1.359 to 2.318). Additionally, social support can also predict self- management indirectly through the mediation of depression (β = 0.290, 95%CI: 0.161 to 0.436) and frailty-depression (β = 0.040, 95%CI: 0.010 to 0.081). However, the mediation effect of frailty alone was not found to be statistically significant (β =-0.010, 95%CI: -0.061 to 0.036). The direct effect accounted for 84.06% of the total effect, while the indirect effect accounted for 15.94% of the total effect. Self-management among elderly COPD patients was relatively moderate to low. Furthermore, frailty and depression were found to have a partially mediation role in the relationship between social support and self-management. Therefore, healthcare professionals need to comprehensively consider the frailty and depression status of patients, and implement targeted intervention measures as part of their care, which can improve the self-management of elderly COPD patients.

Self-Management and Its Associated Factors Among People Living With HIV at University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Background: Self-management (SM) is the gold standard of care and is the direct active participation of patients in their disease management. Condition-specific factors, physical and social environment, individual and family, and the process of SM are factors that influence SM in people living with human immunodeficiency virus (PLHIV). Poor SM leads to high retroviral infection transmission, mortality, and morbidity. Objective: This study was aimed at assessing SM and its associated factors among PLHIV at the University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital (UOGCSH), Northwest Ethiopia. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using a systematic random sampling technique at the UOGCSH from May 20 to July 30, 2022. The data were collected using a previously validated tool and were entered and analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences Version 25. A binary logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors associated with poor SM. The statistical significance was considered at a p value < 0.05. Result: Of 419 PLHIV, the median (IQR) SM score was 39 (9), and above half (52.6%, 95% CI: 48%-57%) of them had poor SM. Being unemployed (AOR = 2.49, 95%CI = 1.19, 5.19), living alone (AOR = 2.16, 95%CI = 1.12, 4.17), unfamiliar with the management of HIV-related symptoms (AOR = 3.59, 95%CI = 2.08, 6.20), poor social support (AOR = 3.02, 95%CI = 1.54, 5.93), poor self-efficacy (AOR = 3.04, 95%CI = 1.83, 5.06), and unsupported by the adherence support group (AOR = 17.17, 95%CI = 8.37, 35.22) were significantly associated with poor SM. Conclusion: The majority of PLHIV had poor SM. This study supports the findings of individual family SM theory and previously published studies regarding factors affecting SM. The government, hospital, adherence support groups, and PLHIV should work on modifiable sociodemographic, condition-specific, and process of SM to improve SM of PLHIV.

The additional value of home exercises to self-management for the treatment of masticatory muscle pain. A clinical trial.

Initial management of temporomandibular disorders (TMD) based on self-management (SM) is strongly recommended by literature, nevertheless, research is needed to investigate the efficacy of different types of interventions under each component of SM against each other for the management of particular subtypes of TMD. The present study aimed to compare the clinical effectiveness of SM and SM with additional mandibular home exercises for the management of myalgia of masticatory muscles. A clinical trial was conducted with 54 subjects with a diagnosis of myalgia according to the Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (DC/TMD), which were randomised into two groups: treated with SM (SM group) and treated with SM and mandibular home exercises (SM+EX group). Follow-ups were carried out at 2, 6, and 10 weeks, where it was evaluated: pain in the masticatory muscles, jaw opening range of motion, and mandibular functional limitation. Data were analysed using Wilcoxon signed-rank test for comparisons between periods (baseline, and weeks 2, 6, and 10) and Wilcoxon rank-sum test for comparison between groups (p=0.05). All the variables showed significant improvement (p<0.05) from baseline to the first follow-up and were maintained later, i.e. both groups were able to reduce pain, increase the jaw opening range of motion, and improve the mandibular functional limitation, although no significant differences were found between groups (p>0.05). The self-management program was able to reduce pain intensity, increase the jaw opening range of motion and improve functional limitation, but the addition of mandibular home exercises do not have a significant impact on myalgia of the masticatory muscles in the short-term. Key words:Myalgia, Self-care, Self-management, Temporomandibular joint disorders.

Factors associated with self-management behaviors among Chinese adults with ischemic stroke: A cross-sectional study.

In China, adults with ischemic stroke are getting younger. Additionally, following a stroke, they often neglect self-management (SM), which significantly impacts the rehabilitation process and treatment outcomes. This study aimed to describe SM behavior and examine the relationship between stroke prevention knowledge, life stress, family relationships, and SM behavior among adults with ischemic stroke. A total of 125 participants were recruited between October 2022 and March 2023 based on defined inclusion criteria. Research instruments included a demographic questionnaire, the Stroke Self-management Behavior Scale for Young Adults, the Stroke Prevention Knowledge Questionnaire, the Perceived Stress Scale, and the Brief Family Relationship Scale. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Pearson's product-moment correlation. The mean score of SM behavior was 88.1 out of 130 (SD = 16.5). Stroke prevention knowledge and family relationships showed a moderate positive significant relationship with SM behavior (r = 0.39, r = 0.34, p <0.001, respectively). Life stress had a significant negative relationship with SM behavior (r = -0.33, p <0.001). The findings offer insights for nurses to develop nursing interventions to promote SM behavior among adults with stroke. Furthermore, they can assist hospitals in transitioning care to the community by emphasizing holistic nursing practices that educate about stroke prevention knowledge, encourage family support, and provide stress management strategies to enhance the SM abilities of adults with stroke.

Self-management education for hypertension, diabetes, and dyslipidemia as major risk factors for cardiovascular disease: Insights from stakeholders' experiences and expectations.

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading cause of premature death, with hypertension, diabetes, and dyslipidemia as major risk factors. Effective self-management (SM) is crucial for controlling these conditions and improving quality of life. This study examines stakeholders' experiences and expectations of SM education to enhance program development. This study employed a qualitative grounded theory approach to explore the perspectives of three stakeholder groups: 19 patients with hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and dyslipidemia, 11 primary healthcare providers, and five provincial health policymakers and managers. Data were collected via semi-structured patient interviews and focus group discussions(FGDs) with health professionals. Coding and analysis were conducted separately using Corbin and Strauss principles with ATLAS. ti version 9.0 software. Most patients were women (68%) aged 50-60 years (37%), with education levels from illiterate to master's degree; 32% had completed primary school. Most were housewives (52%), and 12 had multiple chronic diseases. Healthcare providers included six community health workers and five primary care physicians, with average experience of 12 and 19 years, respectively. Health policymakers and managers averaged 25 years of experience. Patient interviews and FGDs resulted in 12 and 13 subthemes, respectively, with five subthemes common to both sources. These subthemes were grouped into broader main themes, including "effective content design," "effective presentation and delivery," "characteristics and conditions of involved parties," and "educational needs," collectively reflect the central concept of "effective self-management education". Although the core concept and its main themes were evident and consistent across stakeholder groups, significant variations in subthemes from each stakeholder emerged. This underscores the importance of considering diverse viewpoints and highlights that, while overarching concepts may seem uniform, exploring the details of stakeholder perspectives is crucial for understanding their nuanced opinions. Effective education should integrate these insights, focusing on tailored communication, interactivity, and active monitoring.

The Effectiveness of Teaching Self-Management to Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder on Their Self-Management, On-Task and Task Completion Skills

Introduction: Self-management strategies (SMS) consist of antecedent cue regulation, self-monitoring, self-instruction, self-evaluation, or self-reinforcement strategies. Students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can use these strategies especially in their daily life skills, academic skills, or in environments that require social skills. Method: In this study, the effect of self-management (SM) teaching on the acquisition and maintenance of SMS by students with ASD was examined. It was also aimed to determine how students acquire and maintain the behaviors of on-task and task completion by using strategies, and to what extent they generalize the strategies and target behaviors to different people/environments. The study was conducted using multiple probe design with probe conditions across subjects, one of the single-subject research models. Findings: The findings of the study showed that SM teaching was effective in helping students with ASD acquire SMS, and that students who used the strategies continued to use the strategies after the intervention. In addition, it was determined that students who used the SMS consisting of antecedent cue regulation, self-monitoring, self-evaluation, and self-reinforcement increased their on-task and task completion levels, maintained the gains after the intervention and generalized them to different people and environments. Social validity findings collected from the participants showed that they were positive about the use and effects of the SMS. Discussion: There was a significant increase in students' pre-teaching and post-teaching performances regarding target behaviors. The effectiveness of SM interventions was tried to be supported by the findings of the current study and was consistent with the results of the related study.

Factors related to self-management behavior among persons with mild-to-moderate chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in Wenzhou, China

Abstract Objective To describe the self-management (SM) behavior among persons with mild-to-moderate chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and it examines the correlation between COPD knowledge, self-efficacy, perceived social support, and SM behavior among persons with mild-to-moderate COPD in Wenzhou, China. Methods A simple random sampling technique was used to recruit 121 persons with mild-to-moderate COPD who visited the respiratory outpatient department of the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University in Wenzhou, China. Research instruments include a demographic data questionnaire, COPD SM scale, COPD knowledge questionnaire, 6-item chronic disease self-efficacy scale, and perceived social support scale. Descriptive statistics and Pearson’s Correlation were used for data analysis. Results The findings show that the mean score of COPD SM scale was 2.70 (SD = 0.45). The Pearson correlation analysis revealed that the COPD knowledge (r = 0.47, P &lt; 0.001), self-efficacy (r = 0.28, P = 0.001), and perceived social support (r = 0.48, P &lt; 0.001) were positively correlated to the COPD SM behavior among persons with mild-to-moderate COPD in Wenzhou, China. Conclusions The findings indicate that disease knowledge, self-efficacy, and perceived social support were related to SM behavior in persons with mild-to-moderate COPD, which provides a theoretical basis for developing SM interventions for persons with mild-to-moderate COPD and improving this population’s SM behavior.

The Impact of Digital Technology on Self-Management in Cancer: Systematic Review.

Self-management (SM) plays an important role in supporting patients' adaptation to and management of the symptoms of chronic diseases. Cancer is a chronic disease that requires patients to have responsibility in management. Digital technology has the potential to enhance SM support, but there is little data on what SM skills are most commonly supported by digital technology. This review aimed to examine the SM core skills that were enabled and supported by digital interventions in people with cancer and identify any predictors of the effect of digital health intervention on SM core skills. Three electronic databases (MEDLINE, Scopus, and CINAHL) were searched for papers, published from January 2010 to February 2022, that reported randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving patients with cancer or survivors of cancer where a digital technology intervention was evaluated and change in 1 or more SM core skills was a measured outcome. This systematic review resulted in 12 studies that were eligible to identify which SM core skills were enabled and supported by digital intervention. The total number of participants in the 12 studies was 2627. The most common SM core skills targeted by interventions were decision-making, goal setting, and partnering with health professionals. A total of 8 (67%) out of 12 RCTs demonstrated statistically significant improvement in outcomes including self-efficacy, survivorship care knowledge and attitude, quality of life, increased knowledge of treatment, and emotional and social functioning. A total of 5 (62%) out of 8 positive RCTs used theoretical considerations in their study design; whereas in 1 (25%) out of 4 negative RCTs, theoretical considerations were used. In 3 studies, some factors were identified that were associated with the development of SM core skills, which included younger age (regression coefficient [RC]=-0.06, 95% CI -0.10 to -0.02; P=.002), computer literacy (RC=-0.20, 95% CI -0.37 to -0.03; P=.02), completing cancer treatment (Cohen d=0.31), male sex (SD 0.34 in social functioning; P=.009), higher education (SD 0.19 in social functioning; P=.04), and being a recipient of chemotherapy (SD 0.36 in depression; P=.008). In all 3 studies, there were no shared identical factors that supported the development of SM core skills, whereby each study had a unique set of factors that supported the development of SM core skills. Digital technology for patients with cancer appears to improve SM core skills including decision-making, goal setting, and partnering with health care partners. This effect is greater in people who are younger, male, educated, highly computer literate, completing cancer treatment, or a recipient of chemotherapy. Future research should focus on targeting multiple SM core skills and identifying predictors of the effect of digital technology intervention. PROSPERO CRD42021221922; https://tinyurl.com/mrx3pfax.

The association between emotional intelligence and decision making for pilots

Emotional Intelligence (EI) refers to the regulation, perception, and management of self and others’ emotions. EI has been used to gain insights into decision making in corporate Human Resource Management (HRM) contexts, as well as in stressful situations. The link between EI and decision making in HRM could have great benefits to training and management in high-consequence and safety-critical industries. This research investigated the association between EI and decision making of pilots in the aviation industry. The aim was to uncover the level of association between EI dimensions and decision making for pilots; as well as to understand the role that pilots perceive EI dimensions play in their decision making in safety-critical scenarios. One hundred and seventeen pilots completed an online survey comprised of the Wong-Law EI Scale, decision making scenarios, and open-ended questions. The mixed-method analysis of the survey data showed a correlation between individual EI dimensions and decision-making scenarios, rather than the total scores. There are potential implications for general HRM research in EI and decision making as well as practical implications for the aviation industry. Overall, it was found that there is a link between EI and decision making, specifically for scenarios that involve other cognitive functions.