Mechanical-assisted expectoration through meridian points for senile patients with AECOPD

Objective To observe the effect of mechanical-assisted expectoration through meridian points for senile patients with AECOPD. Methods A total of 180 senile patients with AECOPD who were admitted to our hospital from April, 2016 to February, 2019 were randomly divided into a control group and an observation group, with 90 cases in each group. Both groups were given routine treatment and nursing; in addition, the control group were given mechanical-assisted expectoration, while the observation group mechanical-assisted expectoration through meridian points, 3 times a day, 15 to 20 minutes each time, continuously for 5 days. The 24-hour sputum volume, arterial blood PaO2 and PaCO2 of the two group were collected and recorded by the blind method by a nurse. Results A total of 172 patients were enrolled, including 85 in the control group and 87 in the observation group. 5 days after the intervention, daily mean sputum volume, PaCO2, and PaO2 were (12.20±7.83) ml, (42.50±3.31) mmHg, and (83.31±4.62) mmHg in the observation group, which were better than those in the control group (all P<0.05). Conclusion Mechanical-assisted expectoration through meridian points for senile patients with AECOPD can improve their arterial blood gas indicators and the clinical curative effect, has the advantages of simple operation, good drainage effect, and non-toxic side reaction. It is one of the better treatments to promote the sputum excretion of elderly AECOPD patients and is worthy of clinical application. Key words: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease; Acute exacerbation; Meridian; Acupoint; Mechanical-assisted expectoration