Evaluating the Impact of Patient Education on Knowledge, Self-Efficacy, and Quality of Life in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease.

Abstract

Background: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a progressive inflammatory lung condition with no definitive cure. Acute exacerbations (AE) are critical events that accelerate disease progression, leading to significant deterioration in lung function, reduced health-related quality of life (HRQoL), and increased mortality risk. Effective disease education and self-management strategies play a vital role in mitigating these adverse effects.

Objective: This study aims to assess the impact of patient education on disease knowledge using the Bristol COPD Knowledge Questionnaire (BCKQ), self-efficacy via the COPD Self-Efficacy Scale (CSES), HRQoL measured by the St. George Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ), and patient satisfaction through the Patient Survey Instrument (PSI). Additionally, the study evaluates the frequency of physician consultations and hospital admissions due to AE through monthly follow-ups over six months.

Methods: This pre-post experimental study included 23 COPD patients and was conducted in three phases. The initial phase involved obtaining ethical clearance. The second phase focused on the development, translation, and validation of educational materials, including questionnaires and an educational booklet. The final phase comprised the assessment of patient knowledge, tailored education based on identified knowledge gaps, and follow-up evaluations of disease understanding.

Results: Post-education analysis revealed significant improvements in disease knowledge (p=0.000), clinically and statistically meaningful enhancement in HRQoL (mean difference = 11.5, p = 0.003), and increased patient confidence (p=0.005). While consultation frequency remained statistically insignificant (p=0.635), hospitalization rates demonstrated a notable reduction (p=0.000). Patients in GOLD stage 2 exhibited the most pronounced improvements. Overall, 80% of participants expressed satisfaction with healthcare services, treatment, and therapist support.

Conclusion: Targeted disease education and self-management interventions effectively enhance patient knowledge, self-efficacy, and HRQoL, while reducing hospitalization rates due to AE. These findings highlight the importance of integrating educational strategies into COPD management, particularly in the early stages of the disease.