Article

AIM: To unpack and interpret descriptions of experiences of social relationships
during pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) for people living with chronic obstructive
pulmonary disease (COPD). Inspired by interpretive phenomenology,
individual qualitative interviews were conducted twice with 18 persons from COPD
rehabilitation units in two general hospitals. Qualitative content analysis was
performed. RESULTS: Analysis of the interviews revealed the overarching theme of
belonging. The participants emphasised social integration in rehabilitation
groups as well as support from peers and health-care personnel as important
dimensions of social relationships with regard to PR. Active participation in and
engagement with the groups provided opportunities for patients to share their
knowledge, encouraged mutual trust, and support and increased self-confidence,
and motivation for self-care and further social participation. Integration in the
groups and perceived support during PR made coping and adaptation easier and had
a positive effect on quality of life. CONCLUSIONS: Patients' perspectives on PR
were strongly influenced by certain facets of social relationships, such as
social integration and social support. Patients', peers' and health-care
professionals' strategies to promote social support and social integration should
be further explored in the future, both in different contexts and for longer
periods of time.

Langue : ANGLAIS