Evaluating Arterial Blood Gas Modifications Before and After Corticosteroid Intervention in Acute Exacerbations of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Abstract

Background: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), a prevalent and progressive respiratory disorder characterized by airflow limitation and chronic inflammation from prolonged exposure to harmful particles and gases, significantly affects patients' quality of life. Objective: This study examines the impact of corticosteroid therapy on arterial blood gas (ABG) parameters in patients with acute exacerbations of COPD (AECOPD), evaluating ABG values before and after treatment to determine therapeutic effectiveness. Methods: Conducted at Bahawal Victoria Hospital's Pulmonology Department from August 15, 2022, to January 15, 2023, this quasi-experimental study included 202 COPD patients meeting exacerbation criteria. Exclusions included severe systemic illness, unconsciousness, inability to clear airways, arterial blood pH < 7.26, hemodynamic instability, or cor-pulmonale. Patients consented to a 7-day regimen of nebulized corticosteroid (beclomethasone), with ABG parameters like PaO2, PaCO2, and pH measured before and after treatment. Data analysis was performed using SPSS Version 24. Results: Treatment significantly increased mean PaO2 (from 58.78 to 69.41) and decreased mean PaCO2 (from 57.34 to 47.70), with notable improvements across age groups and genders and minimal side effects. Conclusion: Nebulized corticosteroid therapy markedly improved arterial oxygenation and CO2 elimination in AECOPD patients, demonstrating efficacy and safety across demographics. These findings support nebulized corticosteroids as a viable alternative to systemic corticosteroids in AECOPD management.