LIVING WITH CYSTIC FIBROSIS – AN OCCUPATIONAL PERSPECTIVE

Background: “Meeting the complex needs of patients with chronic diseases is the single greatest challenge facing our healthcare system today” (Graham, 2015, p. 4). Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is Ireland’s most common life... [ view full abstract ]

Background:
“Meeting the complex needs of patients with chronic diseases is the single greatest challenge facing our healthcare system today” (Graham, 2015, p. 4). Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is Ireland’s most common life threatening inherited disease. An increased life expectancy has called for a shift in the focus of CF management towards enhancing quality of life. Occupational Therapy (O.T) currently features minimally in the management of CF.

Method:
The aim of this qualitative study of phenomenological methods was to gain an understanding of participants’ experiences of living with CF from an occupational perspective. In doing so the potential contribution of O.T to CF management is explored. Semi-structured interviews with 3 young adults with CF were conducted. Participants were recruited from a convenience sample.

Results:
Using content analysis, the following themes emerged: Cystic Fibrosis and Work Participation, Daily Challenges Associated with Self-Managing CF, Choices made and Strategies used and Growing up and Living with CF. Findings indicate that the experience of living with CF is very much unique to each individual; nevertheless it does have certain shared implications for occupational engagement. All reported to be ‘self-managing’, but certain supports are needed to ensure they can do so effectively.

Conclusion and Application to Practice:
This research study captures the experience of living with CF from an occupational perspective relative to the study sample. Occupational therapy has the potential to play a pivotal role in providing young adults living with chronic conditions such as CF with the support they need throughout their self-management journey.