Influenza and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: Correlating Adult Immunization with Exacerbation Reduction After Implementation of the Global Initiative for Obstructive Lung Disease Recommendations in a Rural Clinic

Author

Jessica Semyonova, Jacksonville State UniversityFollow

Date of Award

Summer 2025

Document Type

DNP Executive Summary

Degree Name

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Family Nurse Practitioner

Department

Nursing

Faculty Chair

Dr. Laura Walker

Preceptor

Dr. Zulfiqar Rana

Abstract

Background: Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) may experience exacerbations of the disease, leading to disease progression, decreased lung function, increased mortality, and decreased quality of life. However, one of the clinician’s best tools in preventing exacerbations may be the distribution of annual influenza immunizations.

Purpose: This project aimed to determine whether implementing an influenza vaccination protocol would increase influenza vaccination uptake and decrease COPD exacerbation rates.

Project Design: An influenza vaccination protocol was implemented over an eight-week period. During that time, data was gathered and compared to data from the previous year when a vaccination protocol was unavailable. A one-sample t-test was used to compare the pre- and post-intervention rates of exacerbations and vaccination uptake. This test determined the project's statistical significance.

Results: This DNP project examined COPD exacerbation rates for 2023 and compared them to those for 2024 to determine whether an influenza vaccination protocol was effective in decreasing exacerbation rates. The data retrieved showed no statistical significance in the decrease in COPD exacerbation rates after the implementation of the protocol, nor was there any statistical significance in the reduction of exacerbation rates in COPD patients with current influenza vaccine status. Vaccination uptake increased after the implementation of the vaccination protocol.

Conclusion: Although the DNP project had mixed statistical significance, it holds clinical significance. Providers must continue to educate patients with COPD on ways to prevent future exacerbations.

Recommended Citation

Semyonova, Jessica, "Influenza and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: Correlating Adult Immunization with Exacerbation Reduction After Implementation of the Global Initiative for Obstructive Lung Disease Recommendations in a Rural Clinic" (2025). Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects. 140.
https://digitalcommons.jsu.edu/etds_nursing/140