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Abstract
Introduction: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a progressive and disabling disease which treatment is usually focused in the control of respiratory symptoms and physical functionality [Citation1]. Nevertheless, many patients with COPD also suffer from emotional distress [Citation2] that is not frequently attended [Citation3], but does interfere with the disease management [Citation4]. This study aimed to identify the presence of symptoms of anxiety and depression in patients with COPD and to explore the association between emotional distress and perceived competence to manage COPD treatment.
Materials and methods: Cross sectional study with a sample of 45 patients with COPD, hospitalized due to the aggravation of their clinical condition. Participantś mean age was of 71 years (SD =11.9), the majority was male and with a low level of education. The measures used were the Sociodemographic and Clinical Questionnaire, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, and the Perceived Competence Scale. Informed consent of the subjects and acceptance of the study protocol by a local ethics committee has been obtained.
Results: Findings show that the number of patients who reported anxiety was high (43.6%). The majority of patients also reported symptoms of depression (55.6%), with more severe clinical levels. A strong and significant association was found between perceived competence and depression (r = −0.73; p= 0.0001).
Discussion and conclusions: Many participants suffer from emotional distress and only a few receive treatment, as was already evidenced by previous studies with COPD patients [Citation3]. Patients with depression feel less competent to manage COPD treatment, what can compromise adherence to treatment and contribute to the aggravation of illness. Others studies shows that depression is prevalent in COPD patients and is associated with lower medication adherence [Citation2]. Health professional interventions aimed to improve therapeutic adherence for COPD patients should include a focus on emotional adaptation. Nursing interventions to improve perceived competence may consider management of comorbidities such as depression and anxiety.