Western NSW Local Health District

Winter is Coming - Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Management  

Background: The ACI audit from May-August 2016 demonstrated areas of COPD management which may be addressed through a patient-centred collaborative approach to healthcare.
 
Aim: Optimise the management of patients with a primary diagnosis of a COPD exacerbation admitted on the medical ward between June 1st–August 15th 2018.
 
Method: A multidisciplinary team was established to focus on smoking cessation, inhaler assessment/education, antimicrobial stewardship and the provision of a patient friendly discharge medication list. Results were retrospectively audited.
 
Results: In comparison to ACI data;
  • 64% of smokers were offered cessation support compared to 40%,
  • 70% of patients had inhaler technique assessed/education compared to 7.5%. Of these patients, 62.5% had their inhaler regimen altered to optimise management,
  • 70% of patients required antimicrobial intervention(s) and
  • 96% of patients were reviewed by a pharmacist compared to 65%.
Conclusion: Engaging patients in risk factor modification and medication management improved COPD outcome measures compared to baseline
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Current as at: Thursday 29 August 2019
Contact page owner: NSW Ministry of Health