Effectiveness and Outcomes of Noninvasive Positive Pressure Ventilation in Patients With Acute Exacerbations of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Background: Endotracheal intubation and mechanical ventilation in individuals experiencing acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are associated with several complications. Therefore, utilizing noninvasive positive pressure ventilation (NIPPV) is the suggested initial management for these individuals. The current study was done to assess and compare the clinical and physiological parameters before and after the application of NIPPV and also to evaluate the outcomes of NIPPV. Methodology: A prospective observational study was conducted on 50 patients with COPD experiencing acute exacerbations. These patients were treated with NIPPV. Measurements of blood pressure, respiratory rate (RR), heart rate (HR), dyspnea using the modified Borg scale, and arterial blood gas (ABG) parameters (pH, PaCO2, and PaO2) were recorded at baseline, one hour, six hours, 24 hours, and daily until discharge. The study's outcomes included the subjects who successfully underwent NIPPV and failed during NIPPV. Results: NIPPV effectively reduced the dyspnea score from 7.24 +/- 1.58 at baseline to 5.53 +/- 1.82 at one hour, 4.11 +/- 1.75 at six hours, 2.60 +/- 1.03 at 24 hours, and 1.26 +/- 0.44 at the time of discharge. Significant improvements were also observed in HR and RR (P < 0.001). When compared to the baseline, the pH level was significantly maintained, PaCO2 was decreased, and PaO2 was increased at various times. Mortality was observed in four patients. Conclusions: NIPPV was successful in 42 (84%) patients, with improvements in ABG and pH for early recovery and reduced hospital stay.