Effect of self-efficacy enhancement program on self-care behaviors in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

BACKGROUND: Given the importance of the chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and role of different factors in self-care behaviors of COPD patients, this study was conducted to determine the effect of self-efficacy program on self-care behaviors of COPD patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this semi-experimental study, 62 COPD patients were recruited in which 31 subjects were in control group and 31 were in experimental group. Subjects were selected based on purposive sampling from Imam Hospital affiliated to the Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Iran, in 2011. Two valid and reliable questionnaires were filled after completing informed consent form. A month later, and after implementing the planned intervention, the questionnaires were completed by the subjects again. RESULTS: The mean standard deviation of age were 64.1 (9.1) years in the control group and 65.2 (8.0) years in the experimental group. There was a statistically significant difference between self-efficacy state before and after intervention. Self-care scores in the experimental group were significantly higher after intervention (t = 25.18, P < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS: Given the high potency of self-efficacy factors on self-care behaviors of the COPD patients, enhancement of self-efficacy in these patients can be very effective in disease control, prevention of complications, reduction of hospitalization costs, and improve their quality of life. Hence, it is suggested that in empowerment programs of these patients, special emphasis will put on the strengthening of their self-efficacy.