The psychological impact of the unpredictability of multiple sclerosis: a qualitative literature meta-synthesis

Rose, Hannah; das Nair, Roshan

Abstract

Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a neurological conditioncharacterised by an unpredictable nature. This characteristic is reported to be the largest challenge for individuals with the condition. Chronic illness literature highlights the psychological impact of unpredictability, but there is a paucity of research examining this concept in MS.

Objectives: This systematic review aimed to explore the psychological impact of unpredictability in MS.

Methods: A meta-synthesis was conducted. A total of 6 studies with 59 participants were reviewed and critically appraised. Themes relating to the psychological impact of unpredictability were extracted and synthesised.

Results: A preliminary model of the unpredictability of MS was developed highlighting the different psychological impacts of diagnosis, remission and relapse.

Conclusions: The psychological impact of unpredictability alters through diagnosis, remission and relapse. Further research is required to explore the experience of unpredictability in MS.

Citation

Rose, H., & das Nair, R. (in press). The psychological impact of the unpredictability of multiple sclerosis: a qualitative literature meta-synthesis. British Journal of Neuroscience Nursing, 9(4), https://doi.org/10.12968/bjnn.2013.9.4.172

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Jun 19, 2013
• Online Publication Date: Sep 27, 2013
• Deposit Date: Jul 18, 2016
• Publicly Available Date: Jul 18, 2016
• Journal: British Journal of Neuroscience Nursing
• Print ISSN: 1747-0307
• Electronic ISSN: 2052-2800
• Publisher: Mark Allen Healthcare
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 9
• Issue: 4
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.12968/bjnn.2013.9.4.172
• Keywords: Multiple sclerosis, psychological impact, unpredictability, systematic review, qualitative, synthesis
• Public URL: https://nottingham-repository.worktribe.com/output/717373
• Publisher URL: http://www.magonlinelibrary.com/doi/abs/10.12968/bjnn.2013.9.4.172
• Contract Date: Jul 18, 2016