Experiences, symptoms and management related to chronic fatigue syndrome : a small study
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Date
2018Citation:
Chukwurah, W. (2018). Experiences, symptoms and management related to chronic fatigue syndrome: A small study (Unpublished document submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Applied Practice) Unitec Institute of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand. Retrieved from https://hdl.handle.net/10652/4680Permanent link to Research Bank record:
https://hdl.handle.net/10652/4680Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTIONS:
• What are participants experience of living with CFS?
• What are peoples’ perceptions of the symptoms associated with CFS?
• How do people manage the symptoms and experiences associated with CFS?
ABSTRACT:
This project aims to understand the experience of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) and its symptoms from the perspective of people suffering from it. Developing an effective care pathway will require the participation of people experiencing the illness. The outcome of the research could be used as a basis for other researchers and practitioners developing care pathways for people with CFS. The outcome of this project may contribute to better healthcare for people with CFS.
The idea that a greater understanding of CFS will contribute to improved care is supported by literature. According to Solomon et al (2003) developing an understanding of specific problems related to the experiences of CFS will help a medical practitioner to both understand and manage this illness. A study carried out by De Lourdes et al (2009) systematically reviewed the need for supporting, managing and maintaining social inclusion for people with CFS.
This research into CFS presents the result of 8 face-to-face semi structured interviews with 8 New Zealanders (7 women and 1 man). The participants were recruited from Auckland and Hamilton regions. None of them had recovered from CFS, they all still had CFS and had developed management plans for themselves. The research data were analysed using the debategraph and thematic analysis approach. The result of the analysis was an exploration of the experiences of CFS. Common themes were identified and discussed. Themes identified were compared with other studies highlighted in the literature review. The research participants were requesting for people in the society particularly healthcare practitioners to listen to them and believe their experience of the illness. Participants want to see people creating awareness of CFS in public places such as schools and magazines