Feasibility Testing of a Self-Management Program Book to Improve Adherence to PAP in Persons Newly Diagnosed With Sleep Apnea. Issue 5 (3rd September 2018) - Dickerson, Suzanne S.
ABSTRACT: Objectives : To obtain feasibility data on a self-management program to improve adherence with positive airway pressure (PAP) in individuals with newly diagnosed obstructive sleep apnea. Methods : A mixed-methods design assessed program effectiveness and participants' opinions on program ease-of-use. Structured interviews with the treatment group occurred one week and one month after initiation of PAP therapy. Results : Participants ( n = 14) completing the study demonstrated 64% adherence versus 58% of the controls. Ease of use was demonstrated. Conclusions : The PAP self-management program demonstrated ease of use and was found somewhat effective in improving PAP adherence. Practice implications : The book was useful in assisting participants by validating information obtained from their providers and developing an understanding of the consequences of not using PAP.