The Role of Interprofessional Collaboration Between Respiratory Therapists, Pharmacists, and Dietitians in Managing COPD Exacerbations in Acute Care Settings

Authors: Mohammed Aljohani, Mesfer Alahmari, Hassan Alshehri, Alanoud M. Alanazi, Amera A. Alqahtani, Arwa Alamoud, Reem H. Alanazi

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.13771938

Short DOI: https://doi.org/gzjqdm

Country: Saudi Arabia

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Abstract: Background: Acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) are a major cause of hospitalizations and poor outcomes. Interprofessional collaboration between respiratory therapists, pharmacists, and dietitians may improve the management of AECOPD in acute care settings.

Objective: To evaluate the impact of interprofessional collaboration on patient outcomes, including length of stay (LOS), 30-day readmission rates, pulmonary function, and nutritional status, in patients hospitalized with AECOPD.

Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted at a tertiary hospital, including 150 patients with AECOPD. Patients were divided into a collaborative care group (n=75) and a standard care group (n=75). Outcomes were compared between the two groups using t-tests and chi-square tests.

Results: The collaborative care group had a significantly shorter LOS (6.1 vs. 8.4 days, p < 0.001) and lower 30-day readmission rates (12% vs. 28%, p = 0.01). Improvements in pulmonary function (FEV1) were greater in the collaborative care group (10.2% vs. 6.4%, p = 0.02). Nutritional status, as measured by serum albumin levels, improved significantly in the collaborative care group (p < 0.01).

Conclusion: Interprofessional collaboration between respiratory therapists, pharmacists, and dietitians improved patient outcomes in managing AECOPD. Implementing a multidisciplinary approach in acute care settings may enhance recovery and reduce readmissions in COPD patients.

Keywords: COPD, AECOPD, interprofessional collaboration, respiratory therapists, pharmacists, dietitians, acute care, hospital readmissions, pulmonary function, nutrition.

Paper Id: 231202

Published On: 2022-08-09

Published In: Volume 10, Issue 4, July-August 2022

Cite This: The Role of Interprofessional Collaboration Between Respiratory Therapists, Pharmacists, and Dietitians in Managing COPD Exacerbations in Acute Care Settings - Mohammed Aljohani, Mesfer Alahmari, Hassan Alshehri, Alanoud M. Alanazi, Amera A. Alqahtani, Arwa Alamoud, Reem H. Alanazi - IJIRMPS Volume 10, Issue 4, July-August 2022. DOI 10.5281/zenodo.13771938

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