In-Ja Kim

Effects of regular exercise on pain, fatigue, and disability in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a major health problem in Korea. To explore the effects of regular exercise on pain, fatigue, and disability, a descriptive study was conducted in 435 Korean patients with RA. Exercisers were defined as those who are currently exercising more than 3 times a week, for at least 20 minutes, and for more than 6-consecutive months after being diagnosed with RA. The primary finding was that exercisers had significantly less fatigue and disability compared with nonexercisers. Results suggest that regular exercise has advantages for patients with RA to decrease fatigue and disability.

Health-Related Quality of Life by the Type of Physical Activity in Korea

This study examined if health-related quality of life is different based upon the type of physical activity performed by 1,266 community-dwelling adults in urban area of Korea. Physical activity was categorized into (a) work, (b) leisure (non-sport), and (c) sports activity. The results indicated that only leisure and sports activity were positively correlated with health-related quality of life. Therefore, it is recommended that leisure and sports activity must be encouraged, especially to people who do not think that they need any leisure or sports activity because they are very active physically at work.

Performance, Delegation, Job Importance and Education Needs for Tasks of Rehabilitation Nurses

Purpose: The aim of this study was to identify performance, delegation, job importance and education needs for duties and tasks perceived by rehabilitation nurses. Methods: Performance, delegation, job importance and education needs in regard to 11 duties and 57 tasks were surveyed 191 nurses who worked at the rehabilitation unit. Results: Performance, job importance and education needs were high in most duties and tasks. Performance was significantly correlated with job importance. Job importance and education needs was also significantly correlated. Direct care was the highest duty in performance, job importance, and education needs. Psycho-social care, coordination, and self-development were high in job importance but low in performance. Psycho-social care, managing mobility disorder, and dysphagia care were most delegated duties. The most delegated person were employed caregiver/careworker, followed by nurse aid, and family members. Conclusion: The educational strategies and opportunities were needed for the rehabilitation nurses and delegated persons.