Brugnolli A, Chini G, Scartezzini R, Ambrosi E. Qualitative study of COVID-19 patient experiences with non-invasive ventilation and pronation: strategies to enhance treatment adherence.
BMJ Open 2023;
13:e077417. [PMID:
38070911 PMCID:
PMC10729144 DOI:
10.1136/bmjopen-2023-077417]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION
Non-invasive ventilation (NIV) treatment combined with pronation in patients with COVID-19 respiratory failure has been shown to be effective in improving respiratory function and better patient outcomes. These patients may experience discomfort or anxiety that may reduce adherence to treatment.
OBJECTIVE
The aim of this study was to explore and describe the subjective experiences of patients undergoing helmet NIV and pronation during hospitalisation for COVID-19 respiratory failure, with a focus on the elements of care and strategies adopted by patients that enabled good adaptation to treatments.
METHOD
A qualitative descriptive study, using face-to-face interviews, was carried out with a purposeful sample of 20 participants discharged from a pulmonary intensive care unit who underwent helmet continuous positive airway pressure and pronation during hospitalisation for COVID-19.
RESULTS
Content analysis of the transcripts revealed feelings and experiences related to illness and treatments, strategies for managing one's own negative thoughts, and practical strategies of one's own and healthcare workers to facilitate adaptation to pronation and helmet. Experience was reflected in five major topics related to specific time points and settings: feelings and experiences, helmet and pronation: heavy but beneficial, positive thinking strategies, patients' practical strategies, support of healthcare professionals (HCPs).
CONCLUSIONS
This study may be useful to HCPs to improve the quality and appropriateness of care they provide.
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