Effectiveness of a self-regulation program using iPad-assisted communication in intubated patients with respiratory failure: A randomized controlled trial

Nuttapol  Chaihan; Pattarin  Pirompanich; Anucha  Wimoonchart; Wauranittha  Timklay

doi:10.18502/npt.v13i1.20601

Nuttapol Chaihan Department of Adult and Older Adult, Faculty of Nursing, Rattana Bundit University, Pathum Thani, Thailand
Pattarin Pirompanich Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Thammasat University, Pathum Thani, Thailand
Anucha Wimoonchart Faculty of Science, Rangsit University, Pathum Thani, Thailand
Wauranittha Timklay Faculty of Science, Rangsit University, Pathum Thani, Thailand

DOI: https://doi.org/10.18502/npt.v13i1.20601

Keywords: self-regulation; iPad-assisted communication; respiratory failure; ventilator weaning; patient-centered care

Abstract

Background & Aim: Communication limitations in intubated patients with respiratory failure increase anxiety, compromise care quality, and may delay ventilator weaning. This study evaluated the effects of a self-regulation program using iPad-assisted communication on anxiety, perceived fulfillment of care needs, and weaning outcomes.

Methods & Materials: A randomized controlled trial was conducted from April to December 2024 and enrolled 60 mechanically ventilated patients with respiratory failure. Participants were randomly assigned to an experimental group (n= 30) and a control group (n = 30). Data were collected on demographics, health status, anxiety levels, perceived fulfillment of care needs, and ventilator weaning outcomes. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, chi-square or Fisher’s exact tests, t-tests, and ANCOVA.

Results: Two hours after the intervention, the experimental group reported significantly lower anxiety levels and higher perceived fulfillment of care needs compared with baseline and the control group (p< 0.001). The experimental group also demonstrated a higher weaning success rate (83.33%) than the control group (66.67%) (χ²= 6.76, p= 0.009). Reintubation within 48 hours was significantly lower in the experimental group (16.67%) than in the control group (33.33%) (χ² = 4.85, p = 0.028). The tracheostomy rate was lower in the experimental group (6.67% vs. 13.33%), but this difference was not statistically significant (χ² = 1.09, p = 0.296).

Conclusion: The self-regulation program with iPad-assisted communication reduced anxiety, enhanced perceived care needs, and improved weaning outcomes. These results support its applicability as a patient-centered intervention to optimize respiratory care in intensive care settings.