What are the needs of patients following discharge from hospital after an acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)?

Aim: To identify patient needs following discharge from hospital after an exacerbation of COPD.

Methods: Qualitative and semi-quantitative study using home-based structured interviews and focus groups involving 25 COPD patients after hospital discharge. Interviews were performed seven days and three months post-discharge. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics and were triangulated with the qualitative data from interviews and the focus groups.

Results: There were high levels of depression (64%) and anxiety (40%). Feelings of anxiety after discharge were associated with the fear of another "attack" and with uncertainties about social and medical care provision, especially the provision of oxygen.

Conclusions: Interventions to reduce readmission for COPD exacerbations need to consider the psychosocial as well as the medical needs of patients. There appears to be a need for improved hospital discharge procedures and community follow-up - including the provision of pulmonary rehabilitation and encouragement of self-management strategies.