An exploration of the lived experiences of anxiety in those with COPD
Research type
Research Study
Full title
An Exploration of the Lived Experiences of Anxiety in those with COPD
IRAS ID
177158
Contact name
Paula Hodge
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Teesside University
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 7 months, 1 days
Research summary
Anxiety and depression are frequent co-morbidities of COPD (Andenaes et al, 2004; Yohannes et al, 2005; gudmundsson, 2006). Recent studies demonstrate that there may be an association linking the existence of these conditions and exacerbations of COPD (Fan et al, 2002). Anxiety which is left untreated and undetected may lead to increased physical disability, morbidity and health care utilization and a decline in quality of life. Poor coping mechanisms and self-management tactics can also be linked to anxiety in COPD exacerbations (Almagro et al, 2002).
The aim of the research to be undertaken is to explore the lived experiences of anxiety in COPD. Acquiring a comprehension of the relationship between anxiety and exacerbations of COPD will assist healthcare professionals in developing a greater awareness of the intricate concept of anxiety. Findings may influence the development of strategies for reducing exacerbations and hospitalisation in the future.
A narrative method will be utilised in order to promote the story-telling of lived experiences of anxiety, and give an insight into the effect on participants’ chronic condition and quality of life. Participants who have been diagnosed with COPD will be recruited by a respiratory nurse practitioner from a patient (south tyneside NHS foundation trust) database. Participants will be invited to take part in a narrative interview and then given the opportunity to keep a diary for 3 weeks to reflect on their experiences of anxiety. They will then be given the opportunity to participate in a second interview to explore their views and thoughts, and to reflect upon the impact anxiety has on their life. Narrative analysis will allow the examination of the substance, configuration and perspective of the information gathered. The conclusion will broaden further insight into the effect of anxiety on people living with COPD, and increase awareness in practice.
REC name
London - Hampstead Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
16/LO/0108
Date of REC Opinion
18 Jan 2016
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion