Diagnosis of COPD according to international guidelines ( GOLD)
COPD exacerbation requiring hospitalization
Initial blood gases: PaCO2\> 50 mm Hg and pH\> 7.35.
If the patient does not have COPD diagnosis at the time of inclusion, it could be included if the diagnosis is confirmed within three months after the exacerbation.
You may not be if
Patients with a pH below 7.35
Patients with intubation criteria
Other chronic respiratory diseases (fibrothorax, cystic fibrosis, significant ribcage alterations)
Neuromuscular Diseases
Significant associated chronic systemic diseases (severe liver disease, chronic renal failure requiring dialysis, severe heart disease and active neoplasia)
COPD exacerbation secondary to pulmonary embolism, pneumonia or pneumothorax
Patients in active treatment with CPAP or home ventilation
