Development and usability testing of a self-management intervention to support individuals with obstructive sleep...

Development and usability testing of a self-management intervention to promote CPAP adherence.

While CPAP is an effective treatment for OSA, patient adherence is sub-optimal. Qualitative interviews and evidence based approaches were used in development.

The initial steps in the Campbell (2000) Framework for complex intervention guided development of the intervention in book format. After sleep expert review and modification, CPAP users reviewed the format and content of the intervention and were interviewed by telephone using a "talk-out-loud technique" to determine usability. The interviews transcripts were analyzed thematically.

Ten participants with varying ages, race, education, and CPAP usage, found the intervention contained useful information to understand their diagnosis, to problem-solve, and monitor their progress. Suggestions included minor format changes and the wish that they had access to the intervention when first diagnosed.

This intervention provides a multimodal approach including education, self-management tools, cognitive restructuring, provider communication guides, and peer stories of success that may be helpful in initiating active problem solving to improve self-efficacy to adhere to CPAP. Future research plans include clinical testing in a RCT with new CPAP users.