Finding the evidence for practice: An overview of research in social support and rheumatoid arthritis

Objective: The role of social support in Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is examined using research from qualitative and quantitative perspectives. The positive and negative effects of social support in RA are outlined including their effect on the psychological health of the patient. This demonstrates the increasing importance of psychosocial factors in chronic illness that can be addressed by nurses using an evidence-based approach.

Method: An overview of social support is given which provides evidence for nursing practice in the care of patients with rheumatoid arthritis. The literature on social support and RA is predominantly quantitative but qualitative research is also used to highlight methods that examine different aspects of support. This can assist the understanding of the meaning and impact of receiving support. Examples from own research experience are used to illustrate the constraints of questionnaires.

Conclusion: The current research evidence demonstrates that social support can be a hindrance as well as help when assistance is required. Qualitative research has identified areas of social support that are under researched including the impact of giving and receiving support on the RA patient and their partner. Nurses need knowledge of social support theory and research to inform their practice. They can also contribute to the evidence base by undertaking their own research in this area.