Authors (including presenting author) :
Kong ISY(1), Kwan HY(2), Ling SO(2), Yim CW(2), Yau A(2), Cheng YF(2), Ng PK(2), Ho HW(2), Choi PY(2), Chan BSC(1), Wong GWH(1), Yau DWT(1), Tsui AYY(1), Chau RMW(1)
Affiliation :
(1)Physiotherapy Department, Kowloon Hospital, (2)Department of Respiratory Medicine, Kowloon Hospital
Introduction :
Under the COVID-19 pandemic, there were services interruption for conventional face-to-face pulmonary rehabilitation, possibly relating to sequential deterioration of pulmonary and physical functions among patients with chronic respiratory diseases. Tele-rehabilitation(Tele-rehab) with patients exercising at home with therapist’s remote monitoring exercise sessions emerged is alternative treatment for continuing rehabilitation. Tele-rehab is well-received in Western countries in solving access problem from geographic barrier(Chong & Billings,2016;Kairy et al,2009;Haines et al,2023) while the long COVID-19 pandemic catalyzed its expeditious sprouting in Hong Kong.
Objectives :
To investigate the acceptability and practicability of a tele-rehab program for patients with respiratory diseases.
Methodology :
A tele-rehab program was piloted from 30 June 2021 to 30 November 2022. Patients with respiratory disease and smart device legibility were recruited. The program was scheduled in weekly basis for 14 sessions. Portable blood pressure monitor and oximeter were provided to patients before the program with explanations and instructions given. Pre- and post-program face-to-face sessions were conducted for delivery of exercise gadgets & education materials, and outcome evaluation. Content of the tele-rehab program included education on bronchial hygiene and dyspnea management such as postural drainage, active cycle of breathing technique, and use of respiratory devices to optimize patients’ chest conditions. In addition, exercise training such as sitting aerobic, Tai Chi, and Theraband exercises was prescribed to optimize their physical condition. Post-program users’ experiences survey was conducted.
Result & Outcome :
A total of five patients with 4 COPD and 1 COVID patients were recruited. The functional capacity, muscle strength and quality of life have clinically improved after training. High satisfaction on tele-rehab program was graded by all patients who also commended on merits of accessibility and saving of traveling time. Majority(80%) of the patients agreed that the smart device was easy to use. With real time audio-visual mean, all agreed breathing exercises could be demonstrated clearly and practiced even without face-to-face interactions. Patients(80%) appreciated the audio-visual experience in promoting skill acquisition and exercise monitoring. All patients agreed the program enhanced patient-therapist communication, strengthened their capability of self-management, and encouraged regular exercise habits. In accord with overseas studies, the merits of respiratory tele-rehab allowed close monitoring of exercise performance, timely expert advice, guided exercise, and feedback to ensure the rehabilitation goals for patients with respiratory diseases. Respiratory tele-rehab was supported by stake-holders for acceptability & practicability with patients’ appreciation.
