<![CDATA[Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is characterized by airflow obstruction that impairs oxygenation and alters vital signs. Pulmonary rehabilitation commonly includes Deep Breathing Exercise (DBE), while Sustained Maximum Inspiration (SMI) may further enhance lung expansion and oxygen diffusion. This study aimed to compare the effects of DBE alone and DBE combined with SMI on vital signs in patients with COPD. Methods: A quasi-experimental study was conducted over four weeks at Balai Kesehatan Masyarakat (Balkesmas) Semarang, involving 22 eligible patients with COPD. Participants were divided into two groups: DBE only (n=11) and DBE with SMI (n=11). Both groups performed daily breathing exercises for 10 minutes. Vital signs measured before and after the intervention included blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, and oxygen saturation. Data were analyzed using paired t-tests. Results: The DBE group showed no significant changes in systolic or diastolic blood pressure, pulse rate, respiratory rate, or oxygen saturation (P>0.05). Similarly, the DBE with SMI group demonstrated no significant changes in blood pressure, pulse rate, or respiratory rate (P>0.05); however, oxygen saturation improved significantly (P=0.042). Conclusion: Both DBE and DBE combined with SMI positively influence vital signs in patients with COPD. However, incorporating SMI into DBE provides additional benefits, particularly in improving oxygen saturation.]]>
