Date of Conferral
2023
Degree
Ph.D.
School
Nursing
Advisor
Deborah Lewis
Abstract
Patients with exertional hypoxemia are often prescribed supplemental oxygen therapy to alleviate their symptoms and maintain adequate arterial oxygen saturation; however, little is known about how chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients with exertional hypoxemia experience the addition of supplemental oxygen on their lives. The purpose of this descriptive phenomenological study guided by Roger’s science of unitary human beings was to explore the lived experiences of COPD patients with exertional hypoxemia and who require supplemental oxygen. Purposive sampling was used to recruit participants using a query from the electronic medical records to identify patients prescribed supplemental oxygen for exertional, not resting hypoxemia. Participants were contacted via telephone to review study details and schedule an interview. Semi structured interviews were conducted via telephone, which were audiotaped and transcribed into a Word document. Thematic analysis using Colaizzi’s method was used to identify and describe three primary themes: (a) ease of use, (b) social stigma, and (c) benefits of portable oxygen. The themes identified from this study may serve as a foundation to guide discussions between patients and providers, with respect to how oxygen therapy affects the experiences of individuals of a similar background. Recommendations for future research include development and testing of treatment plans based on patient-specific goals and values. The findings of this study may contribute to positive social change by improving providers’ and patients’ understanding of the use of supplemental oxygen and its impact on the lives of individuals with COPD.
Recommended Citation
Evans, Sarah Ann, "Lived Experiences of COPD Patients with Exertional Hypoxemia Prescribed Supplemental Oxygen" (2023). Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies. 14115.
https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/14115
