Introduction and Objective: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease typically affecting small joints. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and an increase in temperature. RA affects 0.5-1% of the population and is more common among individuals aged 20-50. The disease follows a pattern of alternating flares and periods of well-being. Clinical diagnosis is established for RA. Self-care is crucial for controlling RA, as inadequate care can lead to joint deformities. Early diagnosis, initiation of treatment, or referral to better care can prevent significant disability and loss of quality of life. The aim of this study is to assess self-care behaviors in RA patients and their impact on quality of life associated with the disease.

Method: Data for this study will be collected through face-to-face interviews and is planned as a cross-sectional analytical study. A total of 350 patients aged 18 and over diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis and registered at the Dokuz Eylül University Education Family Health Center will be included in the research. The SF-36 and Self-Care Behaviors Scale will be used for data collection. Descriptive analyses and independent t-tests will be employed for data evaluation.

Conclusion: The research process is ongoing.