Evaluation of the Effect of Support-Training System of Peer Group on Promotion of Self-Care in β-Thalassemia Major Patients in Southern Iran

Abstract β-Thalassemia (β-thal) is a chronic illness and its complications make the patient less compliant with the treatment protocol. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of a support-training system of peer group on promotion of self-care in β-thal major (β-TM) patients. In this semi-experimental study, 112 β-TM were randomly selected and assigned to the study and control groups. Seven β-TM patients, who were physically, mentally and socially normal, were selected and trained as the peer group. Eight training sessions over 4 months were done by the peer group. The questionnaire with 50 questions was scored using the Likert scale, always with 1 point, sometimes 0.5 point and never 0 points. In the study group, before intervention, the mean score of the patients was 29.84 ± 6.16, which, after intervention, increased significantly to 37.14 ± 4.35, p < 0.001. In the control group, the overall mean self-care patients’ score decreased significantly, from 29.76 ± 7.18 to 29.48 ± 7.02. No significant difference was observed between pre and post intervention in the control group in all aspects of self-care (daily activities, fitness and wellness, nourishment, stress relief, job and home environment, time management, expression and creativity, support, items supporting self-care, self-care of the sickness), but it was significant in the study group. The results revealed the positive impact of peer group in promoting self-care of β-TM patients in the study group compared to the control group, which may be used as a frontline educational model in these patients.