Knowledge regarding Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease among Patients admitted in Tertiary Hospital

Author Name: Mrs. Rose Mary George,1 Mr. Yahya Chhadat, 2 Mr. Parthiv Chaudhari2 Mr. Nikunj Chauhan2 Ms. Nidhi Chaudhari2 and Ms. Vaishali Chauhan2

Volume: 02/02

Country: India

DOI NO.: 11.2023-61555522 DOI Link: https://doi-ds.org/doilink/07.2024-37839188/GIJNR

Affiliation:

1. Professor & HOD, Department of Medical-Surgical Nursing, Parul Institute of Nursing, Parul University, Vadodara, Gujarat, India.
2. BSc Nursing students, Parul Institute of Nursing, Parul University, Vadodara, Gujarat, India.

ABSTRACT

Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a chronic inflammatory lung disease characterized by obstructed airflow from the lungs, leading to symptoms such as breathing difficulty, cough, mucus production, and wheezing. It is typically caused by long-term exposure to irritating gases or particulate matter, most commonly from cigarette smoke. Individuals with COPD are at increased risk for heart disease, lung cancer, and various other conditions. Objective: This study aimed to assess patients' knowledge of COPD, determine the association of knowledge scores with selected socio-demographic variables, and assess the association of knowledge scores with selected clinical variables. Materials and Methods: A quantitative research approach and descriptive research design were used. Convenience sampling selected 50 patients from the medicine and respiratory wards of a selected hospital. A structured knowledge questionnaire assessed patients' knowledge, and written informed consent was obtained prior to data collection. Results: The results indicated that 66% of COPD patients had an average level of knowledge about the disease, 24% had poor knowledge, and only 10% had good knowledge. A significant association was found between knowledge levels and the age of the patients (Chi-value = 20.362, df = 6, p-value = 0.002), but no association was observed between knowledge levels and clinical variables. Conclusion: The study concluded that COPD patients generally have low knowledge about their condition. Therefore, educational interventions are necessary to improve their understanding, which can be effectively delivered by healthcare professionals, particularly nurses.

Key words: Knowledge, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, Patient