Background COPD is a progressive, irreversible condition. Anxiety and depression are two common, yet least treated co-morbidities, in COPD. RNs frequently encounter patients with distressing symptoms hence are ideally placed to address these. CBT delivered by RNs reduces symptoms of anxiety, depression, improves quality of life and is cost -effective.¹ A UK-wide Delphi survey conducted with RNs in 2016–2017 identified that the topic of psychological interventions, including CBT, was ranked in the top five areas of care for future research.²

Aim To explore views of RNs on the importance of screening/providing integrated psychological treatment into routine care and the feasibility of undertaking education and training in CBT.

Method A UK-wide electronic survey was conducted to gather respiratory nurses views on the importance of addressing psychological well-being, current practice, feasibility of education and training in CBT from a personal and organisational perspective. The Results were collated and analysed.

Results Ninety-six responses were received.

The majority (58%) of respondents had ≥10 years’ experience in respiratory care and represented a diverse spread of regions across the UK. The Results are presented in Table 1.

Conclusions There is a clear recognition from RNs of the importance of screening respiratory patients for symptoms of anxiety/depression and undertake further education to deliver psychological treatment such as CBT. RNs with skills to address both physical and psychological symptoms of COPD may be more beneficial and acceptable to patients.

References

1. . Heslop-Marshall K, Stenton C, Newton J, Carrick-Sen D, Baker C, Burns G, De Soyza A. A RCT of CBT delivered by respiratory nurses to reduce anxiety in COPD. ERJ2016;48:OA289. doi:10.1183/13993003.congress-2016.OA289

2. . Kelly C, Knighting K, Kirkcaldy A, Pilkington M. A delphi study to identify research priorities for respiratory nursing. Report for the Association of Respiratory Nurse Specialists (ARNS). Edge Hill University2017.