Perceived Uncertaintyin Multiple Sclerosis Patients

Abstract

Introduction: Multiple Sclerosis is the most common non - traumatic illness of central nervous system. Due to debilitating nature of the disorder, and its unpredictable progress, there is a great deal of uncertainty about the future health and well-being of MS sufferers. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the perceived uncertainty in patients with MS. Methods: This is a cross-sectional descriptive study. The study population consisted of 200 non- hospitalized patients With Multiple Sclerosis. Convenience sampling was applied in this study and data was collected via a questionnaire including background information and MUIS-Community questionnaire consisting of 23 items about uncertainty. Data analysis was performed by T-test and ANOVA test. Results: Results showed that the most active patients (5/79%) were females and 5/67% were married. Overall mean score of uncertainty scale was 67.20 (12/35). The results related to uncertainty dimensions revealed that mean score of ambiguity was 32.24, mean score of complexity was 11.80, mean score of inconsistency was 4.79 and unpredictability was 2.78. The results related to relationship between perceived uncertainty and demographic factors show significant difference between the education level and residence with perceived uncertainty and ambiguity. Conclusions: Considering that MS patients experience the high levels of uncertainty that it will lead to depression and stress, therefore, with the emphasis on rigorous assessment of patient health and holding educational classes of uncertainty management especially for people with lower education level can be an effective step to reduce stress and depression in patients with Multiple Sclerosis.

Keywords

• Ambiguity
• Multiple Sclerosis
• Perceived Uncertainty