aftercare in patients with anorexia nervosa, a descriptive study

Abstract

Background: anorexia nervosa is a serious disease which affects patients’ physical, psychological, and social development and functioning (Strober et al. 1997). To improve the condition of the patient with anorexia nervosa, treatment should also focus on relapse prevention. The Dutch Anorexia Relapse Prevention Guideline has been developed to work structurally on relapse prevention of patients with anorexia nervosa after discharge. Aim: this study is designed to gain a profound insight into the experiences of patients who participated in the Periodic Anorexia Check (PAC)-program based on the guideline, as well as insight into factors that contribute to or hinder successful application of the PAC-program. Methods: a descriptive qualitative research design was chosen to interview ten adults with anorexia nervosa to describe their experience related to a methodological approach aimed at the prevention of relapse in adult patients with anorexia nervosa. Results: patients were satisfied with the PAC-program because they could easily keep in touch with nurses. By drawing up a relapse prevention plan (RPP), patients internalized the plan in daily life. However, they did not work actively with the RPP during the PAC-program anymore. Patients received help from their social network and nurses. According to them to much attention was given to weight throughout the PAC-program. Conclusions: the experience of adult patients towards the PAC-program is generally perceived as good, at some points the PAC-program should be improved. Recommendations: more research is needed towards youth and male patients, and their social network. Patients’ recommendations should be taken into account.