Evaluating the Impact of a Structured Teaching Program on Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Prevention Among Guntur's Cotton Mill Workers

Abstract

Introduction: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease result from increase d resistance to airflow because of airway obstruction or airway narrowing. COPD is an advancing inflammatory condition marked by persistent blockages in the bronchial tubes and pulmonary emphysema. It's a disabling ailment manifesting in symptoms like long-term cough, phlegm, wheezing, breathlessness, and heightened respiratory infections. Lung alterations lead to increased mucus production, impaired cilia function, restricted airflow, lung expansion, irregular gas exchange, pulmonary hypertension, and right-sided heart strain. Persons with COPD are greatly under estimated because the disease is usually not diagnosed until it is moderately advanced. Objectives: (1) To assess the pre-test score of selected physiological parameters among patients with COPD residing in selected cotton workers at Guntur. (2) To assess the post-test score of selected physiological parameters among patients with COPD residing in selected cotton mill workers at Guntur (3) To evaluate the impact of pursed lip breathing exercises on specific physiological measurements in COPD patients residing among a group of chosen cotton mill workers in Guntur. Additionally, to establish the correlation between pre-test scores on these physiological metrics and various demographic variables among these patients. Hypotheses: H₁:  the mean post-test physiological parameters scores among COPD patients will be significantly lower than their pre-test score.  H₂: A notable correlation is expected between the initial scores of specific physiological measurements in COPD patients and certain chosen demographic factors. Research Approach: Considering the issue chosen for the study and the intended objectives, an evaluative research approach using quasi-experimental methods will be employed. Results: After the post-test, it was observed that 8 individuals (13.33%) had insufficient knowledge while 52 individuals (86.66%) demonstrated sufficient knowledge. The average score was 23.43 with a standard deviation of 1.9863, corresponding to an average percentage of 78.10%. The difference between pre-test and post-test knowledge scores represented a 48.13% change. The calculated 't' value of 33.60 exceeded the tabulated value of 2.000 at a 0.05 significance level with 59 degrees of freedom. This indicates a significant contrast between pre-test and post-test knowledge scores.