2025, Vol. 7, Issue 2, Part B

Background: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality, with frequent readmissions posing a significant healthcare burden. Pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) is recognized as an effective intervention to enhance self-efficacy and reduce exacerbation-related hospitalizations. Limited evidence exists regarding its impact in Indian healthcare settings.

Objectives: To evaluate the effectiveness of pulmonary rehabilitation on self-efficacy and reduction of hospital readmissions among COPD patients in selected hospitals of Vijayapur.

Methods: A quasi-experimental pre-test post-test control group design was adopted. Sixty COPD patients were purposively selected and allocated into experimental (n=30) and control (n=30) groups. The experimental group received a structured six-week PR program comprising breathing exercises, physical activity, education, and counseling, while the control group received routine care. Self-efficacy was measured using the COPD Self-Efficacy Scale (CSES). Readmission data were collected over three months. Data were analyzed using paired and independent t-tests and chi-square test.

Results: The experimental group demonstrated a significant increase in mean self-efficacy scores from 38.2±5.1 to 68.9±6.7 (p< 0.001), while the control group showed only a minor, non-significant increase (39.0±4.9 to 41.3±5.2; p = 0.053). Between-group analysis confirmed higher post-test self-efficacy in the experimental group (p< 0.001). Readmission rates reduced by 53.3% in the experimental group compared to 10% in the control group.

Conclusion: Pulmonary rehabilitation significantly enhances self-efficacy and reduces COPD readmissions. Incorporating PR into standard COPD management protocols in India is recommended to improve patient outcomes and reduce healthcare burden.