The Development of a Home-Based Self-Assessment Protocol for Early Detection of Acute Exacerbation for Persons with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Abstract:
This study developed and evaluated the use of a home-based self assessment protocol for early detection of acute exacerbation for persons with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The IOWA model of evidence-based practice was used as a framework for the development of this protocol. Research evidence published from 1997 to 2007 was identified. A total of 16 full-text research articles which focus on the diagnosis of acute exacerbation, severity classification, and factors related to acute exacerbation in persons with COPD were examined and used as sources of evidence. This protocol consists of self-detection of early warning signs and symptoms, prone risk factors, and self-determination of exacerbation severity for seeking hospital care. This protocol had been reviewed by a panel of four experts to ensure its safety and clinical feasibility. Before it was implemented with 15 dwelling persons with COPD. Outcomes were compared with of the 15 persons who did not follow the home-based self-assessment protocol. The results revealed that persons with COPD under the protocol had a lower rate of acute exacerbation (OR = 0.49, 95%CI = 0.17-1.44), had less symptom severity presented at emergency visits (OR = 10, 95%CI = 0.14-135.33), spent less time on making decision to seek emergency care (t = 4.65, p = 0.001) and had lower rates of hospital admission (OR = 0.38, 95%CI = 0.07-1.92), compared to those who did not use the protocol. Practical and feasibility use of the protocol were demonstrated. Nurses should encourage persons with COPD to perform the self-assessment protocol in order to prevent acute exacerbation and to reduce hospitalization delay.
WALAILAK UNIVERSITY. CENTER FOR LIBRARY RESOURCES AND EDUCATIONAL MEDIA