A Study to Assess the Knowledge, Attitude and Practice about Management of Acute Exacerbation of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease amongst EMS Professionals in Pune, India

Abstract

Background: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is one of the common, slow progressive
disorder the respiratory system, considered an important cause of morbidity and mortality across the globe.
Although being a chronic disability, COPD presents with acute exacerbations in the form of breathlessness
and cough. Knowledge regarding about diagnosis of COPD, appropriate titration of Oxygen and effective
management are essential to prevent mortality and morbidity due to COPD.
Objective: To assess the Knowledge, Attitude and Practice level about management of Acute Exacerbation
of COPD among EMS Professionals.
Methodology: The study was conducted amongst 100 Emergency Medical Professionals in Pune, India.
A previously tested and validated KAP questionnaire prepared by Sylvia Saade et al2 was utilized for the
study. The questionnaire was administered through online mode after obtaining informed consent from the
respondents.
Discussion: The analysis of data shows EMS professionals are aware of the aetiology, pathophysiology and
clinical features but require more training in management aspects of COPD. In terms of attitude towards
COPD, broad agreement was found amongst respondents that COPD patients must quit smoking and passive
smoking contributed to COPD. However, opinion amongst respondents with respect to recommendations
regarding exercise was divided. In terms of Practices in COPD, broad consensus was found amongst the
respondents on the usage and precautions regarding metered dose inhalers (MDI).
Conclusion: The study finding point towards a healthy degree of knowledge, attitude, and practice with
regards to COPD amongst EMS professionals. Although the finding do red flag areas of improvement which
can be focused upon in future training session. The study is limited by number of respondents yet attempts
to provide a broad view on Knowledge, attitude and Practices in COPD.