Effect of a nurse-led individualized patient education program on fatigue and quality of life in patients with inflammatory bowel disease
European Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
- Publication Type: Article / Article
- Publication Date: 2026
- Doi Number: 10.1097/meg.0000000000003241
- Journal Name: European Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology
- Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, CINAHL, EMBASE, MEDLINE
- Keywords: fatigue, inflammatory bowel disease, nursing, patient education, quality of life
- Eskisehir Osmangazi University Affiliated: Yes
Abstract
Objectives – This study aimed to evaluate the effect of a nurse-led individualized education program on fatigue and quality of life in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in remission. Background – IBD negatively affects patients’ energy levels and quality of life. However, the impact of individualized patient education on these outcomes remains underexplored. Study – A pretest/posttest control group design was used in this study. Data were collected using a patient information form, disease activity indices, the IBD Fatigue Scale, and the IBD Quality of Life Questionnaire. The intervention group received individualized education and follow-up reminder calls at weeks 2 and 3; the control group received routine care. All patients were reassessed after 4 weeks. Results – A total of 84 patients were included in the study, with no significant differences in sociodemographic characteristics between the intervention and control groups (P > 0.05). At baseline, fatigue and quality of life scores were comparable (P = 0.068 and P = 0.632, respectively). Following the intervention, the intervention group demonstrated a significant reduction in fatigue levels (−16.80 vs. 0.97; P < 0.001) and a marked improvement in quality of life scores (22.30 vs.1.47; P < 0.001) compared to the control group. Also, improvements in IBD Quality of Life Questionnaire were significantly associated with reductions in fatigue. Conclusion – Individualized nurse-led education has the potential to reduce fatigue and improve quality of life in patients with IBD. These findings highlight the critical role of nurses in assessing educational needs and providing tailored education as part of comprehensive fatigue management.