Breathing Exercise and Tele-Nursing Support for Patients With Tuberculosis: A Single-Group Experimental Study

This study implemented a structured respiratory exercise intervention supported by tele-nursing to assess its impact on dyspnea severity and quality of life among patients diagnosed with tuberculosis. The intervention included abdominal breathing, pursed-lip breathing, and effective coughing techniques delivered through a combination of printed educational booklets and instructional videos. These materials were specifically developed for the study and validated by expert healthcare professionals to ensure content accuracy and cultural appropriateness.

Patients were monitored remotely over a 12-week period with scheduled weekly follow-up sessions conducted via telephone and video calls. These sessions facilitated reinforcement of the respiratory exercises, addressed patient inquiries, and enabled continuous assessment of adherence and response to the intervention. Data collection instruments, including validated Turkish versions of the Dyspnea-12 scale, the Multidimensional Quality of Life Scale (MILQ), and the London Chest Activities of Daily Living Scale (LCADL), were employed to quantitatively measure changes in respiratory symptoms, functional capacity, and overall quality of life.

Comprehensive data management protocols were followed to ensure confidentiality and data integrity throughout the study period. Statistical analyses were performed using appropriate parametric and non-parametric tests based on data distribution, including paired-sample t-tests and Wilcoxon Signed-Rank tests, to evaluate the pre- and post-intervention effects.

Ethical approval was obtained from the relevant institutional review board, and all participants provided informed consent prior to inclusion. This research contributes valuable insights into the feasibility and effectiveness of telehealth-supported respiratory therapy interventions in tuberculosis care, highlighting the potential of patient-centered, remotely delivered nursing practices to enhance treatment outcomes.

Inclusion criteria

• Diagnosed with tuberculosis and registered at a Tuberculosis Dispensary.

Meets criteria for study participation.

Provides informed consent.

Able to participate in tele-nursing supported respiratory exercises and follow-up.

Exclusion criteria

Severe respiratory comorbidities preventing exercise participation.

Cognitive or communication impairments interfering with tele-nursing.

Declines to participate or unable to comply with intervention protocol.

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