Patient and Provider Attributes Associated With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Exacerbations

The purpose of this quality improvement project was to identify key patient and provider attributes associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) exacerbations in primary care. Multiple regression analysis was performed on data retrieved from a retrospective chart review. Four variables produced an R of .424, R2 = .18, (F (4,45) = 2.464, P = .059) for the prediction of COPD exacerbations. The strongest predictor was number of counseling occurrences (β =.402), followed by stage (β = .135), CPG (β = −.109), and tobacco status (β = .003). Practice-based evidence generated through this study is a means for improving patient care and patient outcomes.