A literature review on breathing retraining as a self-management strategy operationalized through Rosswurm and Larrabee's evidence-based practice model.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this article is to critically appraise and synthesize the literature on breathing retraining as a self-management strategy for individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) guided by Rosswurm and Larrabee's evidence-based practice model.

DATA SOURCES

Scientific literature review, grey literature review, and hand searching.

CONCLUSIONS

An exhaustive review of the literature revealed evidence that regularly practiced pursed lip breathing is an effective self-management strategy for individuals with COPD to improve their dyspnea.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

It is expected that implementation of this non-pharmacological self-management intervention will improve perception of dyspnea, functional performance, and self-efficacy in individuals with COPD.