What are the benefits of using self-management plans for COPD patients in the community: a critical review of the literature.

The use of self-management plans in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is supported by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) to help patients with this disease manage their own health and recognise any signs and symptoms of an exacerbation. Aim: To critically appraise the literature to assess the benefits of self-management plans in COPD patients in the community setting. Discussion: A total of eight papers were included in this review: three qualitative and five randomised control trials (RCT), with one being a pilot study. The statistical significance of using COPD self-management plans was minimal. However, when exploring subsections of some of the trials, there was some data suggesting there was some health-related quality of life improvement. Conclusion: Further research is required to gain a valuable perspective from individual patients in regards to what they want to be included in a management plan and how this can be implemented into practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]