Perceived Social Support of Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: Case Study

Abstract

Objective : To assess perceived social support and support patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) to receive appropriate social support.

Methods : Assessment of perceived social support for a patient with COPD coming for follow-up at the Chest Clinic, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Hospital. Data were collected from the patient’s medical records, interviews with the patient and relatives using Gordon's functional health patterns and the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS). Demographic data and perceived social support were analyzed to support patients with COPD in receiving proper social support.

Results : A 76-year-old male widowed patient with a 10-year history of COPD had non-adherence to COPD treatment and lived with his son and family. He was able perform the basic activities of daily living; was easily tired when performing activities involving physical exertion and needed care and support from the people around him. The patient had a low overall perceived social support score of 21 points. Perceived social support from medical personnel was highest at 26 points, perceived social support from family members was at 21 points and perceived social support from friends was at 18 points, respectively. Proper social support for patients with COPD comes from three sources: family members, friends, and healthcare providers. Providing support includes encouragement, observation of signs and symptoms, advice and suggestions, and support equipment for managing COPD.

Conclusion : Assessment of perceived social support and promotion of proper social support for each patient with COPD is an important role performed by nurses in holistic nursing care and can lead to improved health-related quality of life for patients.