Hybrid concept analysis of self-management in adults newly diagnosed with epilepsy

The objective of this study was to analyze and define the concept of self-management for adults diagnosed with epilepsy in the previous 12 months. Using the hybrid concept analysis method, we analyzed the concept of self-management as used in literature and as described by patients. The three phases of a hybrid concept analysis are theory, fieldwork, and analysis. Patient perceptions of the concept were elicited in the fieldwork phase via semistructured interviews. Qualitative content analysis was used to analyze both theoretical and fieldwork phase data. The analysis yielded 12 themes regarding the participants’ self-management experiences that were organized under three main, interactive themes: emotional and physical comfort, functional ability, and self-management actions and behaviors. A conceptual framework and definition of self-management also emerged. We conclude that the patients in this population have unique self-management experiences, and an understanding of those needs allows health care providers to devise and utilize interventions to assist those patients in self-managing their epilepsy. Additional research is needed to investigate self-management further in this population.