Abstract
Aim: was to determine knowledge of Greek patients on COPD-etiology, symptoms, medication, vaccination, exacerbation, exercise and physical activity before entering in an education program, in order the optimal content for delivering self-management support is defined
Methods: 24 stable COPD patients (GOLD II-ΙV), age 70±11yrs, were recruited as part of a larger RCT, designed to educate patients in a disease-specific action plan with aim to reduce hospitalization. In-depth one-hour interviews were conducted by one expert physiotherapist using standardized open-ended questions tailored to examine their knowledge on specific topics relevant to COPD self-management
Results: Most patients (67-85%) were aware to questions targeting COPD etiology, epidemiology, progression of the disease and vaccination. Breathlessness, sputum and fatigue are recognized as the main symptoms (95%, 83% and 68%, respectively), while sputum is considered as the usual symptom (86%) of an exacerbation. 66% reported that none health professional had guided them for bronchial clearance techniques. Almost all (96%) declared that the prevention of an exacerbation is a crucial step for the disease progress. 75% of the patients knew that they have to take medication until the end of their lives however, only few reported that they had been shown by health professionals how to use medication (13%) and how to coop with dyspnea (30%). Although high percent (96%) recognize exercise as the main parameter to coop with anxiety and depression only 12% engage a regular exercise program or physical activities.
Conclusion: Education should focus on addressing patients’ knowledge on medication alongside exacerbation
Footnotes
Cite this article as: European Respiratory Journal 2020; 56: Suppl. 64, 74.
This abstract was presented at the 2020 ERS International Congress, in session “Respiratory viruses in the "pre COVID-19" era”.
This is an ERS International Congress abstract. No full-text version is available. Further material to accompany this abstract may be available at www.ers-education.org (ERS member access only).
- Copyright ©the authors 2020