Assessment of online YouTube videos as a source of information and instruction for pulmonary rehabilitation

Abstract

Background/objectives

Pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) benefits individuals with chronic respiratory conditions beyond COPD; however, the quality of online resources has not been evaluated. The aims of this study were to assess the content, quality, and comprehensibility of YouTube videos that provide PR to individuals with chronic lung diseases other than COPD.

Methods

A search was conducted on YouTube for videos related to PR on non-COPD conditions, with the first 350 videos screened for eligibility (2004–2024). Videos were assessed for content based on predefined scoring matrix derived from PR guidelines, evaluated for their quality using the modified DISCERN tool and Global Quality Scale (GQS), and assessed for their understandability and actionability using the Patient Education Materials and Assessment Tool. Engagement metrics including viewing rate and interaction index were also analyzed.

Results

Of the 59 videos included, there was significant heterogeneity in PR content (i.e. aerobic, strength training, flexibility, etc.). 83 % of the videos were published following the onset of COVID-19 pandemic (March 2020), and 85 % of the videos were not directed at specific disease states. Video quality was moderate, with median modified DISCERN and GQS of 3 IQR[3–4] and 3 IQR[2–4] out of 5, respectively. Mean understandability and actionability were above the 70 % threshold. Engagement metrics revealed that median video views were 2857 (IQR[637–10,729]), but engagement was low (1.4 % IQR[1.0–2.7]).

Conclusion

The study highlights variability in PR content and moderate quality of videos, with reasonable comprehensibility. There is a need for more standardized and disease-specific PR online video resources for non-COPD states.