Effectiveness of Clinical Practice Guidelines Implementation for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Patients at Non Sung Hospital.

Abstract

      This quasi-experimental study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of implementing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) care guidelines based on the GOLD Guideline at Non Sung Hospital. The sample consisted of 60 COPD patients with a history of exacerbation. A pre-test and post-test design was employed. Research instruments included the mMRC scale, COPD Assessment Test (CAT) score, Spirometry (FEV₁), and an inhaler technique assessment. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and the paired t-test.

      Results: The majority of participants were male (75.0%) with an average age of 68.4 years. Primary risk factors included smoking and occupational exposure to agricultural smoke. After receiving the multidisciplinary care intervention, the results showed: 1) Clinical Outcomes: The dyspnea level (mMRC) decreased from 2.80 to 1.35, and the quality of life (CAT score) significantly improved, with scores dropping from 25.30 to 11.80 (p < 0.001). 2) Lung Function: The mean FEV₁ %Predicted increased from 51.50% to 58.20% (p = 0.012). 3) Self-care Behavior: Correct inhaler technique significantly increased from 30.0% to 88.0%. 4) Healthcare Outcomes: The re-hospitalization rate markedly decreased from 25.0% to 8.5%.