Physical activity communication in inflammatory arthritis (version 1)

  • Research type

    Research Study

  • Full title

    Physical activity works (PAWs): improving physical activity (PA) communication with patients with inflammatory arthritis

  • IRAS ID

    187561

  • Contact name

    Fiona Cramp

  • Contact email

    fiona.cramp@uwe.ac.uk

  • Sponsor organisation

    University of the West of England

  • Duration of Study in the UK

    0 years, 6 months, 29 days

  • Research summary

    Staying physically active can help people manage their arthritis and reduces the risk of them developing other conditions associated with inactivity. We know that people with inflammatory arthritis do less physical activity than is recommended for a healthy lifestyle and they report that they would like more information from healthcare professionals about physical activity. It is important that healthcare professionals communicate the importance and safety of physical activity to patients to promote engagement. At present it is not clear what information patients routinely receive regarding physical activity during their consultation in secondary care. The purpose of this study is to explore patient recall of communication regarding physical activity during a recent rheumatologist or nurse consultation.

    Telephone interviews will be carried out with people with inflammatory arthritis, diagnosed at least three months previously, within three days of attending the rheumatology departments of University Hospitals Bristol, Weston District General hospital, the Royal National Hospital for Rheumatic Diseases, Bath, and the Royal Devon and Exeter hospital, for a rheumatologist or nurse consultation. Approximately 30 patients will be recruited to allow exploration of a range of experiences from each trust and disease group. Data regarding demographic details, physical function, physical activity levels and exercise beliefs will also be collected.

    The purpose of the interview will be to explore patient recall and interpretation of the information that was discussed in relation to physical activity as well as patient’s suggestions for additional or improved communication. The interview will be semi-structured with questions regarding the physical activity content of the consultation and an exploration of their interpretation and views regarding improving communication. Interviews will be digitally recorded with the patient’s permission. Data will be analysed using thematic analysis (Braun and Clarke, 2006). The findings will be presented at research meetings and submitted for publication in academic peer review journals.

  • REC name

    North East - Newcastle & North Tyneside 2 Research Ethics Committee

  • REC reference

    15/NE/0411

  • Date of REC Opinion

    27 Nov 2015

  • REC opinion

    Favourable Opinion