The goal of this pre-post design clinical trial is to develop a digital, theory-based Pursed Lip Breathing intervention protocol software system installed on smartphones (DT-PLB) and to preliminarily evaluate its feasibility and effects in stable Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). The main objectives are:
- To develop a digital, theory-based Pursed Lip Breathing intervention protocol software system installed on smartphones for managing breathing exercises in stable COPD patients.
- To pilot the methodological procedures of the pre-post study.
- To determine the recruitment rate, retention rate, attrition rate, and software usage compliance during the subject recruitment and follow-up process of the pre-post study.
- To evaluate the perception and satisfaction of COPD patients using the DT-PLB.
- To preliminarily examine the effects of using the DT-PLB intervention on COPD patients, including the six-minute walking test, FEV1% predicted, FEV1/FVC, mMRC scale, COPD assessment test scale, and health points.
- To identify any potential adverse events associated with the implementation of DT-PLB.
Participants will perform the following tasks during the intervention:
- Register a personal account on the DT-PLB software.
- Acquire knowledge and skills related to Pursed Lip Breathing by watching instructional videos.
- Practice Pursed Lip Breathing for 10 minutes per session, three times daily for eight weeks, as per reminders and guidance provided by the software.
- Earn health points by completing specific actions as instructed.
- Optionally post individual texts on the peer forum for peer support within the DT-PLB software.
- Complete two outcome assessments as scheduled.