The effect of pulmonary rehabilitation on perceptions of breathlessness and activity in COPD patients: a qualitative study.
OBJECTIVE
The aim of this study was to explore, using qualitative research methods, how pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) programmes affect the experience of activity and breathlessness of people with COPD.


METHODS
A qualitative, interview-based approach was employed. Participants were interviewed pre- and post-PR. Data were analysed using systematic strategies informed by grounded theory methods.


RESULTS
Nine participants (three female) took part. A change in participants' perception of breathlessness and lessening of fear of activity were the main themes identified. PR appeared to impact on the experience of physical social activities, allowing participants to overcome feelings of social isolation.


CONCLUSIONS
Prior to PR, participants associated activities with breathlessness and panic; post PR, participants reported reduced fear and felt able to increase their activities. These findings add to our understanding of the impact of PR on individuals' experience of activity and may contribute to improved programmes by addressing patients' needs.
Williams
Veronika
V
School of Health and Social Care, University of Reading, Reading, UK. v.m.williams@reading.ac.uk
Bruton
Anne
A
Ellis-Hill
Caroline
C
McPherson
Kathryn
K
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D004417:Dyspnea / Q000209:etiology / Q000523:psychology / Q000534:rehabilitation; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009043:Motor Activity; D009788:Occupational Therapy / Q000379:methods; D026741:Physical Therapy Modalities; D029424:Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive / Q000150:complications* / Q000523:psychology* / Q000534:rehabilitation; D036301:Qualitative Research