Quality of Life and Coping Strategies of Clients with COPD

Abstract

A descriptive correlational design was used to study quality of life and coping in 39 clients with severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Quality of life was measured by using the Sickness Impact Profile (SIP) and Cantril's Ladder; coping strategies were measured with Jalowiec's Coping Scale Revised (JCS). SIP and Cantril's Ladder scores revealed that the subjects experienced a high quality of life. Total coping scores were low, however, implying that patients used the JCS coping strategies only minimally and did not find them particularly helpful. A moderately strong relationship was found between the objective and subjective measures of quality of life. Coping strategies and quality of life were found not to be significantly related. Findings suggest that the caregivers of those with severe COPD should consider the client's perception of quality of life and use of coping strategies. Further research is needed to determine the factors that affect quality of life for these persons.

Impact of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease on family functioning

“…It is possible that family members of inpatients were still in the process of adjusting to illness-induced changes. 7,18,23,24 Because patients' mood changes are detrimental to their condition, especially the wives of COPD patients tend to avoid discussions about problems with their husbands. 3,18 It seems that the communication between family members of both patient groups was reciprocal and that family functioning was generally good.…”

“…28 In view of this, health care professionals should recognize the essence of family nursing and ensure that they have discussions with the whole family instead of 1 family member. 24 Because cigarette smoking is the primary cause of COPD, patients need support from their significant others in quitting smoking, and the entire family needs support from a nurse specialized in family nursing.…”

Adaptation to disability in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: neglected relationships to older adults' perceptions of independence

“…Previous research has suggested that people with COPD prefer using medications over other ways of coping with their disability. 34 This preference may stem from an enhanced sense of control as well as relief of symptoms. 35 Professionals can help by making sure older adults are using their medications to their full advantage.…”

Factors that influence disease-specific quality of life or health status in patients with COPD: a systematic review and meta-analysis of Pearson correlations

“…175 One study found that the patient's coping strategies and health status were not significantly related. 176 Holm et al reported that a poor quality family relationship was associated with more psychological distress and dyspnoea resulting in a worse QoL. 177 One study reported that employment status and, more specifically, COPD patients who were too disabled to work had worse QoL than paid workers.…”