Table 1 Classification of exacerbations
Treatment classification | Clinical classification | Physical assessment | |
|---|---|---|---|
Mild | Treated with short-acting bronchodilators only (patient self-management) | Does not involve respiratory failure | Dyspnoea ranging from insignificant to troublesome Respiratory rate < 25 breaths/minute Heart rate < 110 beats/minute ≥90% oxygen saturation |
Moderate | Treated with antibiotics and/or oral steroids | Acute respiratory failure, non-life-threatening | |
Severe | Emergency room visit or hospitalisation | Acute respiratory failure, life-threatening | Cyanosis or oedema could be evident Respiratory rate > 25 breaths/minute, Heart rate > 110 beats/min < 90% oxygen saturation PaO2 < 8.0 kPa PaCO2 < 6.5 kPa |
Life-threatening | Hospitalisation | Acute respiratory failure, life-threatening | May be confused/unconscious Variable respiratory rate Variable heart rate < 90% oxygen saturation PaO2 < 6.5 kPa PaCO2 > 9.0 kPa Blood gas pH < 7.3 |