What Are The Subject Preferences And Psychological Effects Of Studying Oxygen Therapy In Chronic Lung Disease?
Oxygen therapy stands as a crucial intervention to enhance the quality of life for individuals grappling with chronic respiratory ailments, including Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and interstitial lung disease. In this context, lightweight portable oxygen concentrators (POCs) emerge as a promising alternative to traditional systems such as portable compressed oxygen cylinders. Despite their potential, there is a paucity of research evaluating patient preferences and the psychological effects linked to the use of these devices.
This study aimed to investigate patient preferences between ambulatory oxygen systems, specifically comparing POCs and small cylinders, for individuals with COPD and interstitial lung disease facing exertional desaturation in a rehabilitation setting. Additionally, the research explored how the utilization of each device, based on distinct mechanical characteristics, correlated with perceived quality of life, anxiety, and depressive symptoms.
1. Methods:
Thirty subjects diagnosed with COPD and interstitial lung disease, exhibiting exertional desaturation during a 6-minute walk test (6MWT), were recruited for the study.Each participant underwent two 6MWTs in random order: one while breathing oxygen through a POC and the other using a portable compressed oxygen cylinder. Both devices were calibrated to maintain oxyhemoglobin saturation between 92% and 95% during the tests. A questionnaire assessing anxiety, depression, and quality of life was completed by all subjects. The assignment of each device was randomized for each participant for one week, followed by the substitution with the other device in the subsequent week. At the conclusion of the trial period, participants completed a comprehensive questionnaire evaluating various aspects of the oxygen therapy devices.
2. Results:
Oxygen Saturation and Walk Test Performance
No statistically significant differences were observed in oxygen saturation or mean distances achieved during the 6MWTs between the two portable oxygen devices.The majority of subjects (73.3%) expressed a greater preference for the POC. This preference was primarily based on the ease of transport and lower weight associated with the POC.Correlation analysis revealed that subjects' age played a role in device preferences. Younger subjects were more concerned about the weight of the portable compressed oxygen cylinder, while older subjects found the POC easier to manage.
Disease-Specific Preferences
No significant differences in preferences were identified between subjects with COPD and those with interstitial lung disease.
3. Conclusions:
Performance Comparison
Both the POC and portable compressed oxygen cylinder demonstrated comparable performance during the 6MWT for subjects with COPD and interstitial lung disease experiencing exertional desaturation.
Patient Preferences
The subjects' preference for the POC was attributed to its association with enhanced mobility, emphasizing ease of transport and lower weight as key factors influencing their choice.
In conclusion, this study sheds light on the significance of patient preferences and psychological aspects in the context of oxygen therapy for chronic lung diseases. The findings underscore the importance of considering individual needs and characteristics when prescribing ambulatory oxygen systems, ultimately contributing to improved patient outcomes and quality of life.
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Post time: Oct-05-2023