Information-motivation-behavioral skills intervention increases the CPAP adherence in OSAHS patients

Abstract

<b>Background:</b> The present study aimed to explore the feasibility and effects of the information-motivation-behavioral skills (IMB) intervention on CPAP adherence in OSAHS patients. <b>Methods:</b> This RCT assigned 124&nbsp;moderate-to-severe OSAHS patients to receive either the IMB-based program or usual care. The 4-week IMB program consisted of a face-to-face and two WeChat&nbsp;video sessions to empower patients with skills and knowledge of CPAP therapy and support their goal of treatment compliance. Some questionnaires were used to evaluate the psychological status, satisfaction with initial CPAP treatment, and willingness to use CPAP further. These subjective and objective data at baseline and after randomization were compared between the two groups. The feasibility of the IMB program was evaluated by a satisfaction survey and implementation experience. <b>Results:</b> The willingness of patients in both groups to use CPAP was not strong after the first-night titration, and no significant differences were noted between the two groups with respect to the satisfaction of CPAP and willingness to implement the approach after the first-night titration. However, the IMB intervention group showed a marked improvement&nbsp;in CPAP adherence than the control group over the evaluation period. The IMB group was satisfied with the initial CPAP treatment and showed willingness for further CPAP use. Patient satisfaction survey results and observations on program implementation suggested the feasibility of the IMB program. <b>Conclusion:</b> IMB is recommended in OSAHS patients because of its feasibility and potentially effective intervention in improving OSAHS patients’ adherence to CPAP therapy.