The role of self-efficacy in assisting patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease to manage breathing difficulty

The purpose of this study was to examine changes in self-efficacy after attending a pulmonary rehabilitation program. Twenty-nine subjects with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) were enrolled in the program, which was designed to increase patients' confidence in their own abuity to manage or avoid breathing difficulty in certain situations. Results showed a significant improvement (p < .05) in scores on the COPD Self-Efficacy Scale between preprogram and postprogram attendance. These findings were still evident at 6 months following program attendance. Incorporation of self-efficacy theory should be considered in the rehabilitation of individuals with COPD.