# Educational Interventions for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) in Care Homes: A Near-Empty Scoping Review Revealing a Major Evidence Gap

## TL;DR

This review finds very little research on training care home staff to better manage COPD, highlighting a need for more studies in this area.

## Contribution

The paper reveals a major evidence gap in educational interventions for COPD care in care homes.

## Key findings

- Only one study met the inclusion criteria for evaluating COPD education for care home staff.
- The single included study showed improved COPD knowledge and support after an education program.
- The review highlights substantial gaps in evidence for COPD staff training interventions.

## Abstract

Background/Objectives: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is highly prevalent among individuals residing in care homes, where effective disease management can enhance quality of life by slowing disease progression. Care home staff are central to COPD management in these settings, and their capacity to deliver optimal care may be strengthened through targeted education and training interventions. This scoping review aimed to synthesise existing evidence on education and training intended to enhance COPD care delivery by care home staff. Methods: A scoping review was conducted in accordance with Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) guidelines and reported in line with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) framework. Four electronic databases (CINAHL, EMBASE, MEDLINE, and PsycINFO) were systematically searched for studies evaluating educational or training interventions regarding COPD for care home staff. Results: Only one study met the eligibility criteria for inclusion. This mixed methods study encompassed both a randomised control trial and semi-structured interviews, evaluating the effects of a COPD education programme for healthcare professionals working in a care home setting. This education intervention led to increased COPD-related knowledge and improved support for staff managing residents with COPD. Conclusions: Evidence for educational interventions for care home staff caring for individuals with COPD is extremely limited. While the included study shows potential for educational programmes, substantial gaps persist. Further research is needed to develop, implement, and rigorously assess education and training interventions to support high-quality COPD care in care homes.