COPD Standard Operating Procedure Template

The COPD Standard Operating Procedure Template from Lung Foundation Australia provides hospitals with a structured, evidence-based pathway for managing patients presenting with an acute COPD exacerbation. Designed to ensure safe, consistent and high-quality clinical care, the Standard Operating Procedure standardises every stage of the acute admission, supporting clinicians to deliver interventions aligned with the COPD Clinical Care Standard and COPD-X Guidelines.  

The template establishes a clear, three-phase process covering admission and assessment, treatment and management, and discharge and continuity of care. It guides doctors, nurses, pharmacists, physiotherapists, respiratory scientists and discharge planners through essential steps that reduce variation in care and strengthen clinical decision-making. This includes confirming diagnosis with spirometry, conducting comprehensive assessments, optimising pharmacological treatment, monitoring oxygen therapy, providing inhaler technique education, and addressing smoking cessation and vaccination needs. Each step is mapped to relevant clinical standards to support compliance and best practice. 

During treatment, the Standard Operating Procedure ensures patients receive guideline-recommended interventions such as controlled oxygen therapy, non-invasive ventilation if required, and timely review of medications. It emphasises multidisciplinary coordination to enhance safety, communication and timely escalation of care. 

The discharge phase focuses on improving transitions and reducing readmissions, two known challenges in COPD care. The Standard Operating Procedure prompts provision or updating of a COPD Action Plan, referral to pulmonary rehabilitation, arrangement of follow-up within seven days, communication with GPs through the provision of a discharge summary, and referral to support programs or allied health services. By standardising these practices, hospitals can improve continuity of care, empower patients with self-management skills, and reduce preventable hospitalisations. 

The COPD Standard Operating Procedure Template supports hospitals to embed consistent workflows, strengthen adherence to national standards, and deliver care that is safe, efficient and patient-centred—helping teams respond more effectively to acute COPD presentations and improve long-term outcomes for patients.