Effect of Breathing Exercises on Pain, Dyspnea, and Function in Terminal-Stage Cancer Patients

Effect of Breathing Exercises on Pain, Dyspnea, and Functionality in Terminal-Stage Cancer Patients Receiving Palliative Care - Master's Thesis, İstanbul Atlas University, Graduate School, Dept. of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

This study aims to evaluate the effects of supervised breathing exercises on pain, dyspnea, and functionality in terminal-stage cancer patients receiving palliative care. Participants in the intervention group receive diaphragmatic and pursed-lip breathing exercises under the guidance of a physiotherapist, while the control group receives only an educational brochure. The study compares pre- and post-intervention outcomes between both groups.

This randomized controlled trial aims to investigate the effects of diaphragmatic and pursed-lip breathing exercises on pain, dyspnea, and functional status in terminal-stage cancer patients receiving palliative care. Participants are divided into two groups: the intervention group receives supervised breathing exercises by a physiotherapist, while the control group is given an informational brochure without any physical guidance.

The primary objective is to determine whether supervised breathing exercises provide significant improvements in symptom control and functionality compared to usual care. Assessments are made before and after the intervention using validated tools including the Edmonton Symptom Assessment System (ESAS-r), the Cancer Dyspnea Scale (CDS), and the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for pain.

The study aims to contribute to the clinical evidence supporting non-pharmacological interventions in palliative care and to offer practical approaches for improving quality of life in terminally ill cancer patients.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients receiving palliative care, who are part of this treatment process and considered eligible for the study.
• Patients diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer, included in the study due to their advanced cancer stage.
• Patients with oxygen saturation levels below 95% in room air, who are deemed appropriate for monitoring respiratory function due to this condition.
• Participants must be able to effectively communicate during the study period.
• Individuals who agree to participate in the study must provide written or verbal consent, which is a mandatory criterion for ethical compliance.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients who are unconscious and unable to participate in the study. Individuals under the age of 18.
• Patients dependent on a ventilator.
• Patients with serious health issues, such as uncontrolled hypertension and dyspnea.
• Patients with other significant health problems that prevent participation in the research program.
• Patients with medical conditions requiring drainage treatment.