Self-Management of Rural Adults with Multimorbidity: A Cross-Sectional Descriptive Study

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.14574/ojrnhc.v24i1.748

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine self-management of rural dwelling adults with multimorbidity.

Sample: Participant sample (N=40) was recruited from 5 primary care clinics located in rural communities in the Midwestern United States. All participants resided in isolated rural communities based on zip code of residence (RUCA: 10).

Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive study measured four self-management outcomes (self-efficacy, social support, self-regulation, patient activation) and perceptions of rural community dwelling adults with multimorbidity (N=40). All participants resided in rural/isolated rural communities designated as RUCA 10 (Rural-Urban Commuting Area [RUCA] code).

Findings: Study sample was primarily female (n=32), Caucasian (n=40), with a mean age of 62.13 years of age (range 37-90). Participants self-reported multimorbidity (2 – 7 chronic conditions) differed significantly from care-based (ICD-10 medical record) multimorbidity (range of 2 – 11 chronic conditions). This sample self-reported high levels of self-efficacy, patient activation, and social support. However, low self-regulation ability was noted in this sample. Participants perceptions of multimorbidity focused primarily on the emotional effects and prioritization required for daily management.

Conclusion: Findings from this study elucidate the self-management outcomes and perceptions of rural community dwelling adults with multimorbidity giving a voice to this population to better inform development of interventions tailored to their contextual needs.

Keywords: Rural, Health Disparity, Self-management, Self-Care, Multimorbidity, Multiple Chronic Conditions

DOI:  https://doi.org/10.14574/ojrnhc.v24i1.748

Author Biographies

  • Jessica J Miller, PhD, APRN, AGPCNP-BC, University of Nebraska Medical Center

    Assistant Professor, College of Nursing

  • Susan A Barnason, PhD, RN, APRN-CNS, CCRN, CEN, FAEN, FAHA, FAAN, University of Nebraska Medical Center

    Professor, College of Nursing, Lincoln Division

     

  • Myra Schmaderer, PhD, RN, University of Nebraska Medical Center

    Associate Professor, College of Nursing, Lincoln Division 

     

  • Christine Eisenhauer, PhD, RN, APRN-CNS, PHCNS-BC, CNE

    Community partner

     

  • Kevin A. Kupzyk, PhD, University of Nebraska Medical Center

    Assistant Professor, College of Nursing, Omaha Division 

     

  • Bunny Pozehl, PhD, RN, APRN-NP, FHFSA, FAHA, FAAN, University of Nebraska Medical Center

    Professor, College of Nursing, Omaha Division

     

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Published

2024-05-03

Issue

Vol. 24 No. 1 (2024): Online Journal of Rural Nursing and Health Care, 24 (1)

Section

Articles

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