Print Print
CKS is no longer commissioned by the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE). NICE remains committed to providing a replacement service for CKS and is currently reviewing its options. In the meantime, although CKS content is now not being maintained, it still remains relevant and will continue to be made available. CKS content was generated under a programme of topic creation and update. To check if the topic you are viewing is current or out of date, please refer to the topic publication details by clicking on the 'How up-to-date is this topic?' link in the left hand menu on individual topic pages.

Bronchiectasis - Management
When should I admit someone with an acute exacerbation?

  • Arrange hospital admission for adults who:
    • Are unable to cope at home.
    • Are cyanosed or confused.
    • Have a respiratory rate more than 25 breaths per minute.
    • Have signs of cardiorespiratory failure (such as marked breathlessness, rapid respiration, laboured breathing, cyanosis, worsening peripheral oedema, or oxygen saturation < 93% on room air).
    • Have a temperature of 38°C or more.
    • Are unable to take oral therapy.
    • Have failed to respond adequately to oral therapy.
    • Have pleuritic pain severe enough to inhibit coughing and the clearing of secretions.
  • Arrange hospital admission for children who:
    • Are cyanosed.
    • Have increased respiratory rate and work of breathing.
    • Have signs of cardiorespiratory failure (such as marked breathlessness, rapid respiration, laboured breathing, cyanosis, worsening peripheral oedema, or oxygen saturation < 93% on room air).
    • Have a temperature of 38°C or more.
    • Are unable to take oral therapy.
    • Fail to respond adequately to oral therapy.

© NHS Institute for Innovation and Improvement