Self-Care Program for Thais with Hyperlipidemia

DOI: 10.5176/2315-4330_WNC13.47

Authors: Arissara Sukwatjanee

Abstract:
This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of a self-care program for Thais with hyperlipidemia. The program was based on self-care behavior and blood lipid control. The study involved 98 purposively selected, patients with hyperlipidemia receiving care at a hospital. Subjects were randomly assigned to either the experimental (n = 50) or control group (n = 48). Those in the experimental group received a 24-week self-care program and routine care, while those in the control group received only routine care. The self-care program consisted of two group education sessions, wherein cognitive restructuring was used to increase the subjects’ knowledge about, and ability to carry out self-care for hyperlipidemia. Data were collected via interview-administered questionnaires and blood lipid measurements, before and after participation in the program. Data were analyzed utilizing descriptive statistics; Chi-square; Mann-Whitney U test; and, independent t-test. Results indicated the experimental group, 24 weeks after completion of the program, had a significantly higher mean rank of self-care behavior and self-care ability regarding medication-taking, dietary control, and exercise, as well as significantly lower mean blood lipid levels, than the control group. Findings suggest the program was effective in enhancing subjects’ knowledge regarding hyperlipidemia, as well as control of their blood lipid.

Keywords: hyperlipidemia, self-care, self-management