2017 Volume 37 Pages 399-407
Aims: This study aimed to clarify the characteristics and identify factors related to uncertainty in illness as perceived by idiopathic interstitial pneumonia patients to help them cope with their illness.
Methods: The subjects included outpatients aged ≥40 years diagnosed with idiopathic interstitial pneumonia more than six months ago. Uncertainty in illness was assessed using the “Universal Uncertainty in Illness Scale; UUIS” consisting of 26 items and six subscales (a high score represents a high level of recognition of uncertainty). In addition, the uncertainty in illness was compared between the idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis group and the idiopathic interstitial pneumonia group excluding idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. We conducted the forced entry multiple regression analysis using by the modified medical research council dyspnea scale, forced vital capacities.
Results: 51 patients included, age 71.3 ± 8.7, males 40 (78%). Patients with Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis were 13. The mean UUIS scale total score was 84.7 ± 20.0. The uncertainty in illness of idiopathic interstitial pneumonia patients was assessed using their modified medical research council dyspnea scores which showed a positive correlation (P < 0.05), and their forced vital capacities which showed a negative correlation (P < 0.05). Multivariate analysis showed that the modified medical research council dyspnea score was an independent variable related to uncertainty in illness of [Instability of Self-confidence in Carrying on a Struggle against Illness].
Conclusion: Dyspnea tended to increase the perceived uncertainty in illness in the patients, suggesting its possible effects on the self-care of patients. Healthcare providers must consider care that takes into account the relief of symptoms, physical and psychosocial distress.
