A qualitative study of patient perceptions of home oxygen therapy

Abstract

The aim of this study was to describe the patients’ perceptions of oxygen therapy and how it has impacted on their life. Qualitative data were obtained from 17 face to face interviews. The interviews were recorded electronically and downloaded into computer software. Transcripts were coded to 12 themes covering the impact of needing oxygen, the participants’ feelings about acquiring and having lung disease, their fears and some of the difficulties experienced. Categories and themes were developed around the objectives of the study. A feeling of ‘embarrassment’ was one of the most common occurring themes. During interview it was apparent that the patients expressed two further dominant themes of grief and loss for one’s former self, and social isolation.