Psychosocial effects of systemic sclerosis: A case report

Abstract

“…Sit down. Look at the TV. Move slowly. Wait for death.”

Background & Aim: Systemic sclerosis or scleroderma is a rare chronic connective tissue disease included among autoimmune rheumatic diseases. The disease affects many organs and the organ system. It also has multiple effects on the patient’s individual life. In care management, in addition to the physical effects of the disease, its emotional, psychological, and social influences must also be considered and managed. The present study aimed to touch the psychosocial aspect of scleroderma and the unseen effects of the disease are presented over a case study.

Case Report: 52-year-old, female patient, married with two children. Her self-evaluation after the diagnosis of the disease, she explained that her physical state, social relationships, economic condition, domestic relations, and mood were affected by the disease negatively.

Conclusion: In managing psychosocial problems in nursing care, it is necessary to consider that each patient has different needs, perspectives on life, future expectations, and coping mechanisms. The present study reveals the unknown face scleroderma, its psychosocial effects, from a patient’s point of view.