EXPLORING THE KNOWLEDGE GAPS OF CAREGIVERS IN MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS CARE

Introduction: The aim of this study is to measure Multiple Sclerosis patients' relatives knowledge level about the disease and to determine the clinical and sociodemographic parameters affecting this. Methods: The study included literate first-degree relatives of 120 Multiple Sclerosis patients who were followed up Adult Multiple Sclerosis outpatient clinic in our tertiary university hospital between 02.01.2023 and 03.02.2023. We used Multiple Sclerosis Information Questionnaire. Results: The Multiple Sclerosis Information Questionnaire total score was 10.9±4.5 (min-max: 1-22). There was a positive correlation between education level and total score. (p<0.001). It was observed that the relatives of the patients who used second-line drugs, received intravenous therapy and had a high Expanded Disability Status Scale score had a higher level of knowledge (p=0.014, p=0.003, p=0.006, respectively).Participants had the lowest score about the pathophysiology and clinical course of the disease. Conclusions: The relatives of Multiple Sclerosis patients did not have sufficient information about the disease. Informing patients and relatives at the initial diagnosis and at regular intervals during the disease process will positively affect the long-term prognosis of the disease and will improve the quality of life of both patients and their relatives.