Effects of early rehabilitation during hospitalization for exacerbation of COPD

Uncertainty exists about the safety and beneficial effects of initiating early rehabilitation during an admission for exacerbation of COPD (ECOPD). We explored the effects and safety of early rehabilitation (usual care in our hospital) during hospitalization for ECOPD. A pre/post study was conducted. Inpatients with ECOPD were assessed within 48h of admission (Pre) and at discharge (Post). Early rehabilitation started within 72h of admission, daily, and included breathing control, airway clearance, mobilization, exercise (moderate intensity, modified Borg 4–6) and psychosocial support when indicated. Symptoms (COPD assessment test), handgrip and quadriceps muscle strength, functional performance (London chest activities of daily living) and functional capacity (1-minute sit-to-stand test) were assessed. Pre/post comparisons were explored with paired t-tests. We included 33 inpatients (76% female, 67±7yrs; FEV₁ 42±16%pred; hospitalization 4 [3; 5] days; 2 [1; 2] sessions). At discharge, significant improvements in symptoms, functional performance and functional capacity, and no changes in muscle strength were found (Table 1). No adverse events were reported. Early rehabilitation is safe during hospitalization for ECOPD. The limited number of sessions hinders concluding if it helps preventing muscle strength decline and improving symptoms, functional performance and functional capacity before discharge, or if natural recovery occurred. <fig><object-id>erj;64/suppl_68/PA595/F1</object-id><object-id>F1</object-id><object-id>F1</object-id><graphic></graphic></fig>