BACKGROUND

Prediction of readmission following COPD remains to be an extremely challenging problem faced by clinicians worldwide. We need to find new approaches that can predict readmissions, and develop novel interventions that can decrease exacerbations and improve morbidity in COPD affected patients.

AIM

We aimed to investigate the factors responsible for readmission within 90 days in COPD patients.

METHOD

We have conducted an prospective study in tertiary medical college in tribal area in Jabalpur, India in which a total of 140 cases were admitted out of which 54 cases required readmission within 90 days. We have measured and analysed CAT scores, dyspnea (mMRC grade), smoking index, various comorbidities, complete blood counts, ABG findings, Sputum gram staining amd culture sensitivity, echocardiography, BMI and chest roentgram, and previous exacerbation and hospitalization - at admission and during readmission.

RESULT

This study included 140 patients (mean age - 60.3±8.2 years). Readmission rate was 38% within 90 days. In this study, CAT score (OR - 2.43, 95% CI), history of previous exacerbations (OR - 3.81, 95% CI), history of previous hospitalization (OR - 4.81, 95%CI) are significant findings in patients requiring readmission while other parameters are not significantly associated with readmission within 90 days in our study.

CONCLUSION

There is a clinically significant relationship between higher CAT score, previous exacerbation, previous hospitalization history and 90-day readmission following COPD exacerbation. Thus, by Identifying these parameters we can help in improving quality of care and disease monitoring.