Effectiveness of Self-Management Program to Prevent Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Exacerbation in Older Adults, Banfang District, Khon Kaen Province

Abstract

Introduction: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a significant health issue. Acute exacerbations can accerelate the devline in lung function and intensify disease severity, significantly increasing mortality rates.

Research objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a self-management program in preventing exacerbations among older adults with COPD.

Research methodology: The study employed a quasi-experimental, two-group pre-test/post-test design with 36 participants in each group. The research instruments included a self-management program based on Creer’s model, a knowledge questionnaire, and a self-management behavior questionnaire, which demonstrated Content Validity Indices of .90, .83, and .90, respectively. Cronbach’s alpha of the questionnaires were .87 and .85. Clinical outcomes were assessed using the COPD Assessment Test, the Modified Medical Research Council Dyspnea Scale, and the 6-Minute Walk Test. Descriptive statistics, independent t-tests and paired t-test were used for statistical analysis.

Results: After receiving the self-management program, the experimental group demonstrated significantly higher levels of self-management knowledge, self-management behaviors, quality of life, while reporting significantly lower dyspnea scores compared to the control group (p < .05). However, there were no significant differences in physical performance between the two groups.

Conclusions: The self-management program effectively improves self-care skills in older adults with COPD and reduces the risk of acute exacerbation.

Implications: Primary care nurses should implement this self-management program to promote knowledge, health behaviors, and quality of life, as well as to reduce dyspnea among patients with COPD in the community and support the development of continuing care.