Does ORM's Self-Care Model Affect the Physical Health of People with Major β Thalassemia?

Among the patients with thalassemia, including people who need to get Self-care to be able to use it and learn the basics of self-care, an increase in quality of life (physical dimensions) and enrich leisure time and provide moments happy and relaxed in their lives are concerned. This study aimed to investigate the effect of Orem self-care on physical health of patients with Thalassemia Major.

This quasi-experimental on 80 patients with thalassemia who were eligible for the study was conducted. They were assigned randomly by odd and even method to two intervention and control groups (each group, n = 40). The questionnaire used in this study was Physical Dimensions of quality of life questionnaire SF-36. At the beginning of the study, both groups were given pre-test. The training program based on Orem Self Care Model was conducted. In the end, post-test was taken from both groups. The follow up after three months was done.

The average score of physical function, role impairment due to physical health, pain, physical health and general health in the intervention group before the start of self-care pattern training and three months after intervention, were significantly increased compared to before intervention. However, the mean score of these four domains in the control group has decreased compared to the pre-intervention group (P <0/005).

The results indicate the effectiveness of Orem Self Care Model on physical health and its dimensions (social functioning, physical health, social functioning, pain, general health).