Abstract
Purpose: This RCT study investigates the effects of a self-management program on clinical status indexes of COPD patients.
Design: In this study, 50 COPD patients referred to the respiratory clinic participated.
Methods: Patients were randomly assigned to control and intervention groups. The control group received standard care, and the intervention group received standard care plus the self-management program. Patients were assessed by spirometry, Modified Borg scale, and 6-minute walking test at the baseline and the end of 12-weeks. Paired t-test, independent t-test, and chi-square were used to analyze variables.
Findings: No significant difference was noted in the spirometry indexes mean in the two groups; however, significant differences were noted in dyspnea and exercise tolerance at the end.
Conclusion/Clinical Relevance: Using the 5A model can lead to increased exercise tolerance and decreased dyspnea in COPD patients. Therefore, this self-management program is recommended as an effective way to improve their functional status.