Perspectives on contactless monitoring during sleep among patients with COPD: a qualitative study

<bold>Introduction:</bold> COPD poses a global health challenge, highlighting the need for effective solutions. Telemedicine has emerged as a promising solution (Snoswell, C.L. <italic>et al.</italic> Journal of Telemedicine and Telecare 2023; 29: 669–684), but the impact varies, and adoption remains limited. A potential improvement could be novel monitoring technologies combined with early patient involvement to increase the likelihood of successful implementation (Boiko, A. <italic>et al.</italic> Sensors 2023; 23: 5038). <bold>Aim:</bold> The study aimed to explore the perspectives and acceptance of long-term contactless monitoring during sleep among patients with COPD. <bold>Methods:</bold> Five patients with COPD (aged 64-76) participated in semi-structured interviews following four months of using a contactless monitor during sleep. The radar-based monitor was positioned near the bed and tracked respiration rate and heart rate. The interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis. <bold>Results:</bold> Five themes were identified: intention to use permanently, easy and simple, sleep quality and monitoring, perceived security, and perceived medical surveillance. Overall, participants reported a positive outlook regarding technology acceptance. However, individual experiences varied, highlighting potential challenges related to long-term use and the monitor's suitability for all patients. <bold>Conclusions:</bold> Patients with COPD generally found long-term contactless monitoring to be an acceptable and reassuring tool, with potential benefits for patient security. However, the variation in experiences suggests that further refinement of the technology may be necessary to ensure applicability across diverse patient profiles.