Document Type

Final Project

Graduation Date

Spring 5-6-2023

Degree Name

Doctor of Nursing Practice

First Advisor

Dr. Myra Schmaderer

Abstract

Background: Hospital readmissions due to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) exacerbations are a significant economic and resource burden on the United States healthcare system. Current professional guidelines for the prevention of acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) include providing patient-focused education with a written action plan such as a COPD Action Plan.

Aims: The primary purpose of this project was to determine if providing an educational intervention to patients admitted for AECOPD would reduce hospital readmission rates for COPD and improve patient outcomes. Method: We performed a quasi-experimental pilot study of 10 participants admitted with a COPD exacerbation to a single tertiary care facility in the Midwest. Primary outcomes included 30-day readmission rates, COPD symptoms, quality of life, and patient satisfaction.

Results: We were unable to show a relationship between using the COPD Action Plan and readmission rates, overall health related to COPD, and quality of life. However, clinically it was abundantly clear that COPD patients require close follow-up after being hospitalized and additional interventions that meet their needs and expectations.

Limitations and Implications: Small sample size and quasi-experimental design limit the generalizability of our findings.

Conclusion: The COPD Action Plan intervention was not sufficient in reducing 30-day readmission rates and improving COPD symptoms and overall health status and improving quality of life. A more aggressive intervention may impact patient outcomes.

Keywords: COPD, hospital readmissions, quality of life, education, patient outcomes

Download

Included in

Nursing Commons

Share

COinS