Key components of an exacerbation recovery programme for people with bronchiectasis: patient and staff opinions and preferences

<bold>Background:</bold> Exacerbations of bronchiectasis are associated with increased symptom burden, impaired quality of life, lung function decline, reduced physical activity levels and exercise capacity and increased hospital admission. Exercise-based interventions, such as pulmonary rehabilitation (PR), can improve outcomes in stable bronchiectasis, but limited data exists in the peri-exacerbation setting. Uptake of traditional pulmonary rehabilitation remains challenging in this group. <bold>Aims:</bold> This study aims to provide a framework to inform design of a home-based exercise-based recovery programme for people with bronchiectasis having exacerbations that are receiving home intravenous therapy. <bold>Methods:</bold> Ethical approval was obtained (HCRW REC No.22/YH/0234). Semi structured interviews were conducted with 10 patients with bronchiectasis and 8 healthcare professionals. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. <bold>Results:</bold> The first theme identified was ‘tools to manage bronchiectasis’, featuring reinforced airway clearance techniques, disease-specific education and personalised exercise. The second theme was ‘how to deliver a recovery programme’. Hybrid delivery of virtual and face to face treatment, monitoring and a sense of community were highlighted. <bold>Conclusion:</bold> This study offers a framework on which to develop an exercise-based exacerbation recovery programme for people with bronchiectasis.