Outcomes
hand dynamometer, Respiratory muscle function, hip flexion
ADVERSE EVENTS, THORACIC
All assessments were performed by the same investigator (DN), using identical instructions and methods, at three time points; at baseline, at 8 weeks (post-PR) and at 6 months (post-community programme). The investigator was blinded throughout the study.Feasibility outcomes included the proportion of eligible patients who consented to the study, attrition in each group, staff-to-patient ratio and supervision requirements, reasons for discontinuing the programme and adverse events.The primary efficacy outcome was functional exercise capacity and was measured using the 6 min walk distance (6MWD) test as recommended by the American Thoracic Society (ATS) guidelinesSecondary outcomes were:Respiratory muscle function—sniff nasal pressure (SNIP) and the maximal inspiratory and expiratory pressures (PImax and PEmax) were recorded using a handheld portable respiratory muscle testing device (MicroRPM, CareFusion, Basingstoke, UK). A minimum of 10 attempts were made for each test, on at least one session. PImax was recorded from functional residual capacity and PEmax from total lung capacityPeripheral muscle function—handgrip strength, assessed in the dominant hand, with the elbow at 90° angle, using a hydraulic hand dynamometer (JAMAR Hydraulic Hand Dynamometer, Homecraft Rolyan Ltd, Nottinghamshire, UK). Quadriceps strength (QUADS-DOM) and hip flexion (HIP-DOM) were assessed in sitting position, with the knee at 90° angle and back upright and supported using a handheld dynamometer (Lafayette Manual Muscle Tester Model 01163, Lafayette Instruments, Lafayette, Indiana, USA).Health status, using the St George’s Respiratory Questionnaire for IPF (SGRQ-I)Data were collected and managed using REDCap electronic data capture tools hosted at the NHS Trust.