Patient Experiences and Satisfaction with Non-Invasive Home Respiratory Therapy Devices in a tertiary hospital

Abstract

Background: The increasing prevalence of chronic respiratory conditions has led to a greater reliance on home respiratory devices such as Continuous Positive Airway Pressure machines and oxygen concentrators. These devices are essential in managing conditions like obstructive sleep apnea and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Understanding patient experiences with these devices is vital for improving adherence and overall satisfaction. Non-invasive ventilation is widely recognized as the gold standard for treating OSA. It functions by delivering a continuous flow of air through a mask, preventing airway collapse during sleep. While NIV can significantly enhance sleep quality and reduce daytime drowsiness, adherence remains a significant challenge. It has been reported that nearly 30% of patients discontinue NIV therapy within the first year, primarily due to discomfort, nasal congestion, and feelings of claustrophobia. Such discontinuation not only affects the individual’s health but can also lead to long-term complications associated with untreated sleep apnea, including cardiovascular disorders and impaired cognitive function. While NIV machines and oxygen concentrators are vital in managing chronic respiratory conditions, patient experiences vary widely based on numerous factors, including device comfort and cultural perceptions. This research will address the factors for patient experience and satisfaction with the use of non-invasive home respiratory therapy devices.

Methodology: A quantitative, cross sectional study design using online survey technique distributed among participants as data collection methods in a tertiary hospital. We will utilize two validated questionnaires in one form: the standard method for analyzing System usability scale (SUS) and the S3-NIV questionnaire. Usability will be assessed using the SUS, developed by Brooke in 1986, which has demonstrated reliability and validity in numerous studies. The S3-NIV questionnaire will also be used to assess patient experience.

Results: Total of 197 participants, with a mean age of 62.0 years (SD = 10.5) and a balanced gender distribution (55% male, 45% female). Participants reported an average device usage duration of 2.5 years (SD = 1.2). The System Usability Scale revealed a high overall mean score of 78.5 (SD = 12.3), with approximately 75% of participants scoring above 70, indicating strong perceived usability and ease of operation. Patient satisfaction, as measured by the S3-NIV questionnaire, was notably high, with 85% of participants reporting being "satisfied" or "very satisfied." While 70% found device setup easy, and 80% found daily operation easy, maintenance presented a more varied challenge. The devices had a generally positive impact on daily life for 60% of participants, though 25% reported a neutral impact and 15% a negative one. A weak but statistically significant positive correlation ($r = 0.45, p < 0.05$) was found between perceived usability and overall patient satisfaction. Importantly, no statistically significant correlations were identified between demographic factors (age, gender, duration of use) and either usability or satisfaction scores, suggesting a robust user experience across diverse patient profiles.

Conclusion: This study investigated patient experiences and satisfaction with non-invasive home respiratory therapy devices. It found high levels of perceived usability and overall satisfaction, with participants generally finding the devices easy to set up and operate. A statistically significant positive correlation between usability and satisfaction highlighted the importance of user-centered design for positive patient outcomes and enhanced quality of life. Despite these positive perceptions, device maintenance was identified as an area needing improvement, suggesting a need for simplified designs and enhanced patient education from manufacturers and healthcare providers. The varied impact of devices on daily life also indicates the importance of a holistic approach to patient care, beyond just device functionality.