Investigating the Experiences of Patients with NEAD, Version 1.0
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Investigating The Experiences of Patients Who Have Presented To Clinical Neurophysiology With Non-Epileptic Attack Disorder, Using The Interpretative Phenomenological Approach
IRAS ID
245891
Contact name
Helen Pryce
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Aston University
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 7 months, 30 days
Research summary
Investigating the experiences of individuals with non-epileptic attack disorder (a condition characterised by attacks that mimic seizures, but are not caused by electrical activity in the brain), who undergo video-telemetry electroencephalography (a diagnostic test that involves recording electrical brain activity in conjunction with video).
The researchers aim to find out how it feels and what it means to the participant to go through these investigations, how it relates to their everyday life, explore their knowledge, norms and expectations associated with the experience, in a group of people with a condition that presents with physical illness but has no known physical cause.
The researchers aim to elucidate the specific needs and preferences of this group of patients, and how is best to communicate and tailor investigations, to improve patient experience. It is known that improvements in the diagnostic pathway, such as earlier diagnosis and improved communication can reduce the severity of illness and improve quality of life in these patients, however it is not known whether aspects of diagnostic testing could have these beneficial effects.
Few studies focus on the patient perspective of undergoing these investigations and therefore this study will provide information and guide clinicians in their approach, communication and management in a condition where care and treatment is poorly understood and managed.
This is an exploratory study utilising one-off, semi-structured, in-depth interviews conducted with adults who have undergone video-telemetry electroencephalography at one clinical site. Open-ended questions will explore the individual’s views and opinions, their feelings regarding undergoing the investigations and the meaning associated with this.
The interviews will be analysed using a method which creates a rich and complex description of the experiences of an individual and allows the core essence and common themes to be identified.
REC name
London - Westminster Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
19/LO/1491
Date of REC Opinion
21 Oct 2019
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion