A SELF-MONITORING INTERVENTION FOR PATIENTS WITH ARTHRITIS RECEIVING ORAL METHOTREXATE

Background: Self monitoring is one element of self management which has been shown to improve both clinical and psychological outcomes in a number of chronic conditions. There is no evidence at present to suggest the use of this behavioural technique in arthritis. Objectives: To assess whether patients with arthritis on Methotrexate can self monitor their blood results and symptoms, and as a result initiate an out-patient appointment appropriately following the delivery of a training programme. Methods: Results will be presented from the pilot study (n=51) and the initial findings of the larger randomized controlled trail (RCT; n=140). Participants monitored 6 consecutive blood tests and associated symptoms, based on pre-determined criteria. Beliefs about the arthritis and medications were assessed by questionnaire at baseline and follow-up. Results: By the 3rd blood tests 100% of participants made a correct judgement. Eight participants accounted for all errors. The `no error' group were more concerned about the adverse effects of Methotrexate at baseline. The `error' group had significantly lower beliefs about the necessity of Methotrexate at final follow-up. Conclusion: People with arthritis are able to accurately self-monitoring their blood tests and initiate outpatient's appointments. Beliefs about the adverse effects of Methotrexate were predictive of success. Disclosure of Interest: None DeclaredCitation: Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases, volume 70, supplement 3, year 2011, page 9Session: Psycho-educational interventions for patients with arthritis and their families (Speaker Presentations )