Date of Conferral

2021

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Health Services

Advisor

Katie Callahan

Abstract

Due to policies that penalize hospitals for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) readmissions and the health problems faced by individuals who are readmitted due to COPD, it is critical to identify treatments and strategies that can help reduce the likelihood of readmission. The purpose of this study was to assess the association of pulmonary rehabilitation and demographic variables (age, gender, and BMI) on 30-day hospital readmissions for patients with COPD. Shearer’s health empowerment theory was the theoretical framework for this quantitative study. Secondary data were obtained from a hospital and the sample was comprised of 253 COPD patients admitted between 2017 and 2019. Linear and multiple regression was used to analyze each research question. The results indicated age, gender, BMI, and pulmonary rehabilitation did not influence the readmission rate of COPD patients. These findings suggest less emphasis be placed on age, gender, BMI, and pulmonary rehabilitation when dealing with COPD readmissions. The results of this study provide information to healthcare organizations and patients with COPD around the use of pulmonary rehabilitation. Hospitals can invest in other methods of COPD treatment by developing various programs to lower hospital readmissions, reduce healthcare costs, and improve the quality of life for patients with COPD while contributing to a positive social change.

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