Preliminary outcomes of the CREWS study

Introduction: We are conducting clinical research on a Community Respiratory Early Warning Score (CREWS) in those admitted with a diagnosis of COPD. CREWS combines a vital signs and symptoms early warning scoring tool that may assist in recognising early signs of exacerbation and prompt early intervention thus avoiding hospital admission. Aim: Evaluate the utility of the CREWS effect on hospital admission, impact on ability to self manage COPD and effect on QOL pre and post intervention. Methods: 1 year pre and post pilot observational study in 50 people with a diagnosis of COPD with at least 1 admission in the year prior to enrolment. The number of admissions and bed days; QOL life; Utility of the CREWS; and self management ability pre and post intervention. Results: 48 participants are recruited with 6 exclusions due to withdrawal of consent and 3 deaths. 10 have completed 1 year follow up with results reported. Those who have completed follow up to date have shown an 81% reduction in admission rates and an 80% reduction in bed days which equates to approximately £32,000 savings for our organisation. Conclusion: Our preliminary results indicate that the CREWS may prove helpful in reducing hospital admission rates and beds days. Patients can use the tool and do find it helpful in self management of their condition. Utility, QOL and self management data will be reported on study completion in February 2016.