Rheumatologists’ knowledge, attitude and current management of fatigue in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA)

Abstract

To describe rheumatologists' knowledge, attitude and current management of fatigue in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), a postal questionnaire was sent to all rheumatologists (N = 204) and trainees (N = 49), members of the Dutch Society of Rheumatology. The overall response rate was 44% (N = 110). In general, rheumatologists' knowledge about RA-related fatigue was in accordance with the literature but they perceive a lack of their own knowledge about aetiology and evidence-based interventions to prevent and treat fatigue. The majority of the rheumatologists believe that fatigue is a multi-disciplinary diagnosis and is preferably managed by the nurse specialist (34%). Assuming that the patient will raise the issue, most of the rheumatologists pay attention to fatigue during the first consultation and less often during follow-up consultations. There is a need for knowledge about causes and treatments for RA-related fatigue to ensure that patient outcomes are improved.