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Acute Exacerbations Of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: A Primer For Emergency Physicians, Randy Sorge, Peter Deblieux

School of Medicine Faculty Publications

Background: Acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) impose a significant burden on patients and the emergency health care system. Patients with COPD who present to the emergency department (ED) often have comorbidities that can complicate their management. Objective: To discuss strategies for the management of acute exacerbations in the ED, from initial assessment through disposition, to enable effective patient care and minimize the risk of treatment failure and prevent hospital readmissions. Discussion: Establishing a correct diagnosis early on is critical; therefore, initial evaluations should be aimed at differentiating COPD exacerbations from other life-threatening conditions. Disposition decisions are based …