Abstract
Background and Objectives: Empowering patients through educational interventions based on Orem’s self-care model is considered a promising approach for improving patients’ quality of life. However, the current evidence is dispersed and sometimes contradictory, necessitating a systematic synthesis. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of educational interventions grounded in Orem’s self-care model on patients’ quality of life.
Materials and Methods: In this systematic review, Persian and English articles published from 2000 to 2024 were retrieved from international databases (PubMed, Scopus, ProQuest, Cochrane, Web of Science, CINAHL), national databases (Magiran, SID, ISC, IranDoc), and Google Scholar using keywords related to “Orem self-care model” and “quality of life.” After screening and quality appraisal based on the JBI tool, 47 relevant studies were included. Data were synthesized descriptively, focusing on variations in findings.
Results: Of the 47 included studies, 27 were conducted in Iran and 20 in other countries. Most of the studies focused on chronic patients with a wide spectrum of illnesses (such as cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and hemodialysis). In the majority of the studies, Orem-based educational interventions led to significant improvements in the overall quality of life scores. Several studies also reported enhancements in secondary outcomes, including self-efficacy, anxiety, depression, self-care behaviors, and sleep quality.
Conclusion: The findings demonstrate the positive effect of educational programs based on Orem’s self-care model on patients’ quality of life. Structured application of this model, adapted to cultural and social contexts, with appropriate needs assessment and the use of various educational and support methods, is recommended. Future research should focus on standardizing interventions and ensuring greater geographical diversity to enhance generalizability.