Abstract
Objective: This study analyzed the pattern of acute respiratory events in chronic hypoxemia with emphasis on exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
(COPD).
Methodology: This descriptive observational study was conducted from February 2023 to June 2023 and included 52 COPD patients suffering from chronic hypoxemia. Chronic exacerbations were assessed using Winnipeg Criteria considering Type 1, Type 2 or Type 3. Hospitalization level, calculated as oxygen saturation <90%, comorbidities and the severity of the patient’s symptoms, was determined. The treatment outcomes were measured by FEV1 and treatment failures in patients receiving corticosteroids. All quantitative data were analyzed by SPSS version 20 and descriptive and inferential statistics, including chi-square tests and paired t-tests. Results: This study found 16 (30%) of patients with Type 1 exacerbations, 19 (37%) with Type 2 and 17 (33%) with Type 3. Hospitalization indicators were present in 67% and of patients that received oxygen. 33% had an oxygen saturation level lower than 90%. Corticosteroid therapy produced significant increase in FEV1 in 77% of the patients (p<0.05) and reduced the treatment failure in 23% of the patients.
Conclusion: This work reinforces the clinical utility of the Winnipeg Criteria in the assessment of COPD and finding their key predicators for hospitalization. Corticosteroid therapy was very effective in improving FEV1 and minimizing the chances of failures during treatment. Early detection of exacerbation patterns are necessary so that proper management and care can be given to reduce adverse clinical outcomes.

Key words: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, acute exacerbation, corticosteroid therapy, Winnipeg Criteria, chronic hypoxemia.