How to design an education programme for patients with chronic obstructive disease?

Learnings from a community pharmacy based project to evaluate patient attitudes

Abstract

Introduction: COPD is a debilitating disease and a major death cause by 2020. Our current knowledge of the opportunities of patient education in the community pharmacy is growing, though yet limited.

Objectives: (1) To assess the potential of a patient education programme in a Hungarian pharmacy, (2) to understand patient attitudes and gather insight for the development of an education project, (3) to create a sustainable local good practice.

Methods: We invited patients with a confirmed COPD diagnosis to take part in an in-depth interview, and to assess their symptoms. Later on, we offered them tailor-made education to learn about their attitudes to create the guidelines for optimal content.

Results: Key elements of the education content should focus on the desire of active life, improve poor adherence, teach about reliever and maintenance therapy and emphasise the chronic component of the disease. Smoking cessation should be fostered, whilst patients would benefit from proper breathing techniques and posture.

Conclusion: Hungarian patients may prefer to get fast and basic education in the community pharmacies. The ideal education content should include pathophysiology, signs and symptoms, treatment options, explanation of medication, inhaler use, smoking cessation and breathing techniques.