Quality of Life in Multiple Sclerosis

Abstract

Objective: To explore quality of life in patients with multiple sclerosis. Concept Analysis: A concept analysis of quality of life in multiple sclerosis was conducted using Rodgers’ evolutionary concept analysis method. Eighty-three studies were reviewed. Study Proposal for Secondary Analysis: The proposal was for a secondary analysis using a quantitative, longitudinal, repeated measures design to determine if stem cell transplant has an impact on the quality of life of multiple sclerosis patients with aggressive disease. Summary of Findings: A concept analysis provided valuable insight into the use and understanding of the concept of quality of life in the multiple sclerosis literature. The subjective and multidimensional attributes of quality of life in multiple sclerosis were similar to findings in previous concept analyses of quality of life in general and in other diseases. The other attributes of the concept being measureable, modifiable and predictable revealed the uniqueness of quality of life in multiple sclerosis and provided a foundation for the development of future research. The results of the secondary analysis will provide new knowledge of a novel treatment for multiple sclerosis and its impact on quality of life. This advancement of knowledge in nursing and across health care disciplines will aid in the delivery of collaborative and comprehensive patient-centred care to ultimately improve the lives of multiple sclerosis patients.