We Appreciate The Good Days - A Qualitative Study Of Patient Experiences Of Receiving A Diagnosis Of Rheumatoid Arthritis

Background: Every year about 2000 persons in Denmark are diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. There is a lack of knowledge about the patients' experiences of receiving the diagnosis and their needs for support and guidance. Aim: To gain more insight into the experiences of patients with a recent diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis in relation to receiving the diagnosis and needs for support and guidance from the nurse. Method: A qualitative design based on nine semi-structured interviews using thematic analysis. Results: Four themes were identified: Receiving the diagnosis, Learning to live with the disease, Thoughts about the future and Need for support and guidance. Conclusion: Understanding everyday life with the disease evolved gradually. In general, they adapted to their treatment and related adjustments, thus support and guidance should be tailored to the needs and life situation of the individual.