RESUMO
INTRODUCTION: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a condition which requires, among others, the administration of bronchodilators and anti-inflammatory drugs to control the disease. They help to keep the airways clear and prevent the buildup of fluid and mucus. Inhalation is the most widely used form of administrating the medication because of its local and rapid action which normally is done by aerosol therapy. The objective of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of two aerosol methods in clearing the airways of COPD patients, admitted with an exacerbation due to their disease. It also aims to evaluate its effects on the length of stay, oxygen saturation, dyspnea, autonomy and complications. METHODS: Randomized clinical trial. Traditional method (control group) and positive expiratory vibrating device (intervention group): two ways to deliver aerosol were compared. The following outcome variables were considered: length of stay, days of fever, oxygen saturation, need for NIV or VM, the basic activities of daily living index autonomy (Barthel), dyspnea (Borg scale) and peak-flow. RESULTS: 39 patients were included. Regarding hospital stay, patients in the intervention group spend an average of one day less in hospital. Also in this group there were fewer readmissions. No statistically significant differences were found in the remaining variables. CONCLUSIONS: The inhalation treatment with a vibrating device with positive exhalation, appears to reduce the length of stay and prevent readmissions. It is important to continue research on non-pharmacological interventions as to achieve the prevention of relapses.