Home monitoring of breathing rate in people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: Observational study of feasibility, acceptability, and change after exacerbation

This study examined the accuracy and acceptability of commercially available breathing rate monitors when used in the home, as well as their ability to detect changes in breathing rate in patients recovering from an acute exacerbation of COPD. In the first phase of the study, breathing rate measurements were validated in a laboratory setting; as part of this process, 21 patients with COPD underwent baseline pre- and post-bronchodilator lung function testing using a Vitalograph Alpha spirometer.