Evaluation of the Management of Acute Exacerbations of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease in Hospitalized Patients

Abstract

Background: Acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) are estimated to cost $1.5 billion annually in Canada. Previous studies have shown that barely half of all patients receive ideal care in hospitals. Deviations from guideline-defined optimal care lead to longer hospital stays, readmissions, and increased mortality. Objective: To determine the proportion of patients admitted to hospital for AECOPD who received treatment adherent to guidelines. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted with ethics approval from the University of British Columbia Clinical Research Ethics Board. Patients hospitalized for ≥24 hours with an AECOPD at a tertiary care center and a community hospital were assessed. Guideline-adherent treatment was defined as appropriate use of supplemental oxygen, inhaled bronchodilators, systemic corticosteroids, antibiotics, venous thromboembolism prophylaxis, initiation/continuation of nicotine replacement therapy for current smokers, and vaccination optimization, reflecting international standards of care. Outcomes were assessed using descriptive statistics. Results: A random sample of 210 patients were selected of which 99 met inclusion criteria. Only 4% received therapy that met all recommendations. Differences in management were found between sites, specifically the appropriate use of bronchodilators, corticosteroids, antibiotics, and supplemental oxygen. Venous thromboembolism prophylaxis and smoking cessation rates were 97% and 94%, respectively, at the tertiary care center, compared with 73% and 100% at the community hospital. Additionally, less than half of all patients had their immunization history verified. Conclusion: Gaps in the inpatient management of AECOPD continue to exist. Initiatives must be targeted to optimize management and reduce the burden of the disease.