Acupressure versus Pursed Lip Breathing Techniques on Physiological Parameter and Dyspnea Grade among Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Abstract

Background: chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Dyspnea has considered the most common health problem among patients with COPD; nonpharmacological management of dyspnea decreases its grade. Aim: to evaluate the effect of acupressure versus pursed lip breathing techniques on physiological parameter and dyspnea grade among patient with COPD. Design: A quasi-experimental design was utilized. Sample: It included 80 adult patients and divided into two groups as a group (1) acupressure group (n=40) and group (2) pursed lip breathing techniques (n=40). Setting: the study was conducted at the chest unit at Alexandria main university hospital. Tools: (1) socio-demographic data questionnaire, (2) Modified medical research council scale (MMRC), and (3) physiological parameter. Results: There was a decrease in dyspnea grade post-pursed-lip breathing group more than acupressure group and there was a statistically significant difference between two groups about dyspnea by the end of the 4th week and respiratory rate & oxygen saturation. Conclusion: Pursed-lip breathing was effective therapy for patients with COPD to improve dyspnea, physiological parameter, and oxygen saturation, while acupressure has a minimal significant effect on dyspnea grade. Recommendation: Prospective study should be designed to determine the stability of the effect of acupressure to control dyspnea.