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Fatigue in patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: A qualitative study on the perspective of the COPD patient on the impact of fatigue on their daily lives

Kouijzer, M.T.E. (2017) Fatigue in patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: A qualitative study on the perspective of the COPD patient on the impact of fatigue on their daily lives.

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Abstract:Fatigue in patients with COPD is a problematic symptom. Patients experience fatigue as a key factor that negatively influences their daily lives. This study focuses on the patients' perspective on the impact of fatigue on their daily lives and possible treatment options to tackle the burden of fatigue. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with twenty COPD patients. This resulted in extensive information about the severe impact of fatigue on physical, psychological and social functioning of patients. They experienced severe limitations in their daily lives. These limitations caused a high mental burden. Patients emphasized the need for effective treatment, discussing the use of self-management and eHealth interventions. These findings indicate that patients found the impact of fatigue on their daily lives to be a key factor in decreasing their quality of life. Awareness needs to be created in both healthcare professionals and patients about the impact of fatigue, and it being a frequent symptom of COPD. In addition, a pro-active, multidisciplinary approach is needed to develop tailored treatment which focuses on prevention of fatigue, rather than treating the severe burden of fatigue when the disease progresses.
Item Type:Essay (Master)
Clients:
Medisch Spectrum Twente, Enschede, Nederland
Faculty:BMS: Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences
Subject:77 psychology
Programme:Psychology MSc (66604)
Link to this item:https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/73717
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