Self-management behaviors to reduce exacerbation impact in COPD patients: a Delphi study

Authors Yvonne Korpershoek, Joyce C. Bruins Slot, Tanja W. Effing, Marieke Schuurmans, Jaap C.A. Trappenburg
Published in International Journal of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Publication date 2017
Type Article

Summary

Little is known about which self-management behaviors have the highest potential to influence exacerbation impact in COPD patients. We aimed to reach expert consensus on the most relevant set of self-management behaviors that can be targeted and influenced to maximize reduction of exacerbation impact. Materials and methods A 2-round Delphi study was performed using online surveys to rate the relevance and feasibility of predetermined self-management behaviors identified by literature and expert opinion. Descriptive statistics and qualitative analyses were used. Results An international expert panel reached consensus on 17 self-management behaviors focusing on: stable phase (n=5): pharmacotherapy, vaccination, physical activity, avoiding stimuli and smoking cessation; periods of symptom deterioration (n=1): early detection; during an exacerbation (n=5): early detection, health care contact, self-treatment, managing stress/anxiety and physical activity; during recovery (n=4): completing treatment, managing stress/anxiety, physical activity and exercise training; and after recovery (n=2): awareness for recurrent exacerbations and restart of pulmonary rehabilitation. Conclusion This study has provided insight into expert opinion on the most relevant and feasible self-management behaviors that can be targeted and influenced before, during and after an exacerbation to exert the highest magnitude of influence on the impact of exacerbations. Future research should focus at developing more comprehensive patient-tailored interventions supporting patients in these exacerbation-related self-management behaviors.

On this publication contributed

  • Yvonne Korpershoek | Researcher | Research group Chronic Diseases
    Yvonne Korpershoek
    • Researcher
    • Research group: Proactive care for older people living at home

Language English
Published in International Journal of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Year and volume 2017 12
Key words COPD, zelfzorg, Delphi study
Page range 2735-2746

Yvonne Korpershoek

Yvonne Korpershoek | Researcher | Research group Chronic Diseases

Yvonne Korpershoek

  • Researcher
  • Research group: Proactive care for older people living at home