EFFECT OF FAMILY SUPPORT PROGRAM ON QUALITY OF LIFE OF EPILEPTIC CHILDREN IN KHARTOUM 2016

ABSTRACT Epilepsy is a chronic illness that has a great impact on the life of the epileptic children. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of family support program on quality of life of epileptic children. An experimental study design was used in this study. Forty five (45) epileptic children from Soba University Hospital Outpatient Clinic were selected randomly as intervention group and, another Forty five (45) epileptic children from Fathelrahaman El Basher Outpatient Clinic, selected as a control group. Data was collected on three occasions from the experimental and control group as follows: before the implementation of the program, one and 3 months after the program completion. Program activities implemented through four sessions, one hour session per week for one month. The program covered all the points evaluated by the scales, using different methods and materials such as lectures, pictures, discussion, videotapes and Hand out. Mean total quality of life significantly improved in the experimental group, at baseline data, 1 and 3 months after the program (52.85%,65.60% ,79.56%) respectively (P-value˂.0005). Unlike quality of life in control group no significant change has been observed. A significant difference in all Health related quality of life sub domains in experimental group from baseline data, 1 and 3 months after the program (p-value ˂.0005).Unlike quality of life in control group where no significant change has occurred.Conclusion: The study has shown the effectiveness of the role played by family support program in improving quality of life of epileptic children in experimental group compared to control group where no significant change has occurred.It will recommended that , educational programs must be carried out periodically for parents to provide them with proper knowledge and skills necessary for improving the quality of life for their epileptic children .