As the disease progresses, dyspnea and fatigue may increasingly interfere with daily activities, reduce patients' independence, and negatively affect their quality of life. Therefore, in addition to pharmacological treatment, there is a need for safe and supportive interventions to help alleviate these symptoms. This study aims to evaluate the effects of Su Jok therapy on dyspnea and fatigue in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The findings are expected to provide evidence regarding the potential role of Su Jok therapy as a complementary intervention for symptom management. The results may contribute to improving patients' symptom control and quality of life while providing healthcare professionals with evidence to support clinical decision-making and nursing care.
Inclusion Criteria:
Adults aged 18 years or older. Diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Able to communicate verbally. Expected to remain hospitalized for at least 5 days to ensure completion of the intervention.
No major health condition other than COPD that could adversely affect activities of daily living (e.g., open wounds, cancer, or gastrointestinal disorders).
Provided written informed consent to participate in the study. A Visual Analog Scale (VAS) score of 3 or higher for dyspnea and fatigue
Exclusion Criteria:
Patients who do not provide written informed consent to participate in the study.
Patients who are unable to communicate verbally. Patients with conditions that would prevent the application of Su Jok therapy to the hands, such as neuropathy, amputation, open wounds, or other hand disorders.
Participants in this group will receive routine COPD care plus five consecutive daily sessions of Su Jok therapy. Dyspnea and fatigue symptoms will be assessed daily using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Questionnaire data will be collected before the intervention (baseline) and after completion of the intervention (post-test).
Participants in this group will receive routine COPD care only. Dyspnea and fatigue symptoms will be assessed daily for five consecutive days using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Questionnaire data will be collected at baseline and after the study period (post-test).
Erzincan, Turkey (Türkiye)
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