Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 16, 2026

Using Continuous Data Tracking Technology to Study Exercise Adherence in Pulmonary Rehabilitation
Published on: November 8, 2013
The effect of a pulmonary rehabilitation programme on older patients with chronic pulmonary disease
Kim Ae Kyung1, Patricia A Chin
1School of Nursing, Dankook University, Cheonan City, South Korea. aekim@dankook.ac.kr
Aim:
The aim of this study was to answer the question: is there an effect on the respiratory capacity and activity tolerance of older patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease who participate in a pulmonary rehabilitation programme?
Background:
Pulmonary rehabilitation is now an integral part of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease management. Evidence supports the positive effects of breath training and exercising training on quality of life, exercise tolerance and improved physical condition of individual with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Limited empirical documentation exists to support the effectiveness of a nurse managed rehabilitation programme for older patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The study was done to evaluate the effects of pulmonary rehabilitation provided by nurses on the pulmonary function, gas exchange and exercise tolerance in older patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Design:
A one group pre-test-post-test design was used to evaluate the effects of a pulmonary rehabilitation programme.
Method:
The sample consisted of 20 patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease who participated in a pulmonary rehabilitation programme including breathing exercises, upper-limb exercises and inspiratory muscle training.
Results:
The findings indicated improvement in exercise performance and a decrease in dyspnea after participation in the pulmonary rehabilitation programme.
Relevance To Clinical Practice:
The clinical nurse can make a significant impact on the illness trajectory and quality of life for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The nurse has a critical role in helping patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease learn to cope, adjust and adapt to life with a chronic illness. Active nurse involvement with a patient in a pulmonary rehabilitation programme can assist in the identification of factors that motivate the patient, help in establishing realistic out comes expectations and provide patient teaching opportunities. The nurse can assist the patient to develop skills of self-awareness regarding particular symptoms, self-monitoring and health status change identification.
Related Concept Videos
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-I: Introduction
Pulmonary Function Tests
Pulmonary Function Tests are crucial diagnostic tools for assessing respiratory function, particularly in patients with chronic respiratory disorders. They comprehensively evaluate lung volumes, ventilatory function, breathing mechanics, diffusion, and gas exchange. These tests help diagnose pulmonary diseases and play a significant role in monitoring disease progression, evaluating disability, and assessing response to therapy.
PFTs involve using a spirometer, a...
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-III: Symptoms and Complications.
Symptoms of COPD can be classified as primary or systemic. Primary symptoms relate to reduced airflow, while systemic or extrapulmonary symptoms relate to COPD's broader impact on the body.
Primary Symptoms of COPD:
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Smoking is a primary risk factor for COPD, with over 80% of patients having a history of it. Patients typically experience progressive dyspnea or labored breathing, frequent coughing, and recurrent pulmonary infections. Many eventually succumb to respiratory failure, characterized by...
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-V: Management
Smoking Cessation
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-V: Nursing Management
Assessment