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The effect of concept mapping-based self-care education on quality of life in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: a non-randomized quasi-experimental study

Dadashi N, Rasoulzadeh N, Karimi R

BMC research notes, 2026

Abstract

Objective: In addition to pharmacological treatments, self-care education is crucial for managing chronic conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis. Concept mapping, a visual and learner-centered educational strategy, has shown potential in improving self-care engagement. However, evidence for its effectiveness in rheumatoid arthritis populations remains limited. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the effect of concept map-based self-care education on quality of life in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

Results: Following the intervention, participants in the experimental group showed significantly better outcomes compared to the control group in overall quality of life (P 0.05). Therefore, concept mapping, as a structured and visual educational strategy, may enhance patients' understanding of complex self-care information and improve quality of life among individuals with rheumatoid arthritis.

Trial registration: The protocol of this clinical trial has been registered in the Iranian Clinical Trial Registration Center (registration code: IRCT20230405057828N1). Registered 23 June 2023- registered while recruiting, https://www.irct.ir/ .

How strong is the evidence?

Evidence Hub reads this as a randomized trial, done in people. Its evidence level is 2 of 5 (High · randomized trial). Randomized trials of a reasonable size are the strongest single-study design.

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