Feasibility and acceptability of home-based pulmonary rehabilitation for individuals with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis in Delhi, India

Abstract

Objectives: To determine the feasibility and acceptability of home-based pulmonary rehabilitation (HBPR) for individuals with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Methods: In this single-arm feasibility trial, individuals with IPF were recruited from Delhi, India, to a 6-weeks HBPR programme using a paper-based manual. Primary outcomes were feasibility (classified by ≥60% of eligible patients recruited and ≥70% of recruited patients completing the follow-up assessment) and intervention acceptability (semi-structured interviews). Results: Out of 42 screened, 36 individuals were eligible (86% of screened), and 30 were recruited (83% of eligible, 71% of screened; 60 ± 13 years, 53% female), with 25 completing their follow-up assessment (83% of recruited). HBPR was generally well-accepted, with qualitative themes including: ‘facilitators and barriers to HBPR’ (family support and flexibility of home environment were facilitators whereas lack of supervision and inability to follow a routine were barriers), ‘perceived changes from taking part in HBPR’ (improved exercise capacity, breathlessness, and independency), and ‘how to improve HBPR in the future’ (translating the manual into various languages, and incorporating into a more hybrid approach). Conclusion: HBPR using a paper-based manual was feasible and acceptable, potentially suitable for improving the uptake and completion of PR for individuals with IPF in Delhi, India.