Patient Perception Questionnaire Validation

The PPQ is a custom questionnaire including 10 questions evaluating perceptions of OSA and CPAP treatment. Each question is derived from models of psychology such as self-regulatory ability and social support. Q1 ranges from 0-10, with 10 indicating OSA negatively impacts life. Q2 ranges from 0-10, with 10 indicating belief that OSA will last forever. Q3 ranges from 0-10, with 10 indicating that CPAP is extremely necessary to control OSA. Q4 ranges from 1-10, with 10 indicating no intention of using CPAP at all. Q5 ranges from 1-10, with 10 indicating presence of a highly supportive spouse. Q6 ranges from 1-10, with 10 indicating benefit of CPAP is well understood. Q7 ranges from 0-10, with 10 indicating extreme concern about using CPAP. Q8 ranges from 1-10, with 10 indicating high confidence with using CPAP. Q9 ranges from 1-10, with 10 indicating high perception that CPAP will help treat OSA. Q10 ranges from 1-10, with 10 indicating spouses negative attitude toward CPAP use.

An assessment of participants adherence to CPAP treatment after 90 days. Data was extracted from CPAP device compliance reports.Adherence was defined as use for 4 hours or more per night for 70% of nights in each report period at 14, 60 and 90 days.

To determine the stability/consistency (reliability) of the PPQ at three time points during the first 90 days of CPAP treatment usage. At each of these time points, the exact same PPQ as described in the Primary Outcome Measure was re-administered to determine whether the scores remained consistent over time. The answer responses described in the Primary Outcome measure also remain the same. Total PPQ was calculated as an average of the 10 questions. Total score ranges from 0-10 with higher scores indicating a worse outcome.