A pilot study of a pulmonary rehabilitation programme evaluated by four adults with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Abstract

The purpose of this qualitative study was to analyse participants' perceptions of a pulmonary rehabilitation programme, which combined occupational therapy with physical therapy. Semi-structured interviews were used to collect data from four adults with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) who attended an outpatient pulmonary rehabilitation programme in New York City. Features of the occupational therapy programme reported to be valuable were biofeedback and clinician support. Participants reported more control of dyspnoea, improved mental health and confidence in performing daily activities, less fatigue, more physically active lifestyles and hope for the future. Limitations of the study were that participants were interviewed only once and themes were not verified with participants. The study results also cannot be generalized. Further research is needed to evaluate the effectiveness of occupational therapy in promoting self-management and coping skills and restoring occupational performance in adults with COPD. Participants' responses provide additional support for developing cognitive-behavioural protocols in occupational therapy and measuring their effectiveness in relieving anxiety symptoms and promoting dyspnoea management.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients’ experience with pulmonary rehabilitation: A systematic review of qualitative research

“…The safe and motivating environment of the programmes, social encounters and group sessions with peers also encourage participants as well as family assistance. 15,16,[18][19][20][21] The health professionals supervise patients' performance through close monitoring, giving them positive reinforcement and encouragement, which is the basis of the learning process; 15 they also motivate patients to continue exercising at home. The staff provide feedback regarding the progress of patient activities, which is 'painfully slow', increasing patients' self-confidence; they stimulate participants to continue with the treatment and identify their own limits.…”

“…And that was the feeling of confidence, increasing feeling of strength'. 15 The health professional support influences the patient's capacity to recognize health improvements.…”

“…I never miss the treadmill, to me, that's top priority'. 15 Peter is also well disciplined to exercise every day, comparing its importance with others daily-life activities:…”

“…I know if I'm going to do it, I've got to get into a routine -a routine that's comfortable, that's going to work for me -and then stick to it. 15 Patients got a new life through the education sessions. 'Practical tips' were included in daily activities, as Mrs M states:…”

“…It's like when you're as stricken as this, you want as much as possible available to try if it's there. 15 One patient emphasized her return to a dancing group with a friend as a new goal for the near future:…”