Lived Experience of Individuals Parenting With Inflammatory Arthritis: A Qualitative Evidence Synthesis Protocol

Inflammatory arthritis (IA) is a chronic autoimmune condition characterised by joint pain, fatigue and other symptoms. Often diagnosed during peak parenting years, IA presents unique challenges to fulfilling parenting roles. Occupational therapy researchers have emphasised the need to better understand parenting as a valued occupation. Despite this, there has been limited targeted research addressing parenting among people with IA. Instead, parenting experiences, challenges and strategies are dispersed across a wide body of literature, making it difficult to form a comprehensive understanding of how IA impacts parenting. To address this challenge, we aim to synthesise qualitative literature on the lived experience of parenting with IA. Insights from this occupational therapy perspective can guide the development of services to better support this cohort.

This study will conduct a qualitative evidence synthesis (QES) of primary qualitative research exploring the lived experiences of parenting with IA. A search strategy guided by the PerSPEcTiF framework will identify relevant literature across healthcare databases. Eligible studies will include primary qualitative research involving parents with IA parenting children aged 0-21 years. Data will be extracted and synthesised using an occupational therapy model. Methodological quality will be appraised using the CASP checklist, and confidence in findings will be assessed using GRADE-CERQual.

Findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications and presentations at relevant conferences. The synthesis aims to inform clinical practice by highlighting key support needs and occupation-based strategies for parents with IA. This review will provide a foundation for the development of a parent-focused occupational therapy intervention.