P194 Implementation of a cystic fibrosis-specific virtual pulmonary rehab program

Abstract

Objectives: Pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) is a key management strategy for people with chronic respiratory disease (BTS Guidelines, 2013). However, in cystic fibrosis (CF), despite the benefits of regular exercise being well documented (Radtke et al, 2017), there is limited uptake. Concerns regarding infection control, lack of CF education, and participating with an older age group may be contributing factors. A pilot study demonstrated good clinical benefits to participants in a CF-specific PR program (Bowen et al, 2019) and current CF Foundation guidelines advise that patients with advanced lung disease should be offered such programs (Kapnadak et al, 2020). We aimed to establish a CF-specific PR program at Manchester Adult CF Centre, as part of the CF Trust Physiotherapy Fellowship service development project. Method: Patients completed a bespoke 8-week program, comprised of biweekly 1:1 virtual exercise sessions. Each session included aerobic and strength training linked to patient goals and was progressed according to reported Borg and muscle fatigue scores. A 1-minute sit to stand test (STS) was performed pre-program and repeated at the end. Enrolled patients had access to an online educational website, which covered a range of CF-specific topics. Patient feedback was collected at the end of the program. Results: [Table Preseteed] Patient feedback indicated that 100% of participants felt their goals had been met and that they would recommend the program to other people with CF (PWCF). Conclusion: Some of the program design was in accordance with what was achievable during the COVID-19 pandemic. Alteration of outcome measures may be required as clinical services normalise. Although a small sample, initial feedback has been extremely positive, indicating that a virtual PR approach may be suitable in engaging PWCF in physical activity. Further data is needed to demonstrate if the program is of clinical benefit and to identify the optimum time-frame of the intervention.