Funcionalidad familiar y el apoyo de amigos de los pacientes que padecen artritis reumatoide en el cantón Loja

Abstract

Abstract: Introduction: Family nucleus and social support are essential for a better quality of life. The Family and Friends Support APGAR is an instrument to evaluate family functioning and support from friends that people receive. Objective: To determine the degree of family functioning and support from friends that patients with rheumatoid arthritis possess in the canton of Loja. Methodology: Quantitative study, which will use the cross-sectional cohort analytical method, in which we worked with a sample of 60 people who receive care at Manuel Ignacio Monteros Hospital. Ages ranged from 18 years and older. Results: It was found that 83.3% of participants have normal family functioning in the evaluated dimensions, mostly in the age range of 31 to 64 years, mostly women. However, a significant deficit in support from friends was identified, where 43.3% reported lacking a friend nearby, for which they had no one to ask for help. Conclusion: Family support is crucial for patients with chronic illnesses.