Clinical Research Directory

Inclusion Criteria: All patients hospitalized for COPD exacerbation for less than 48 hours will be considered. * known or suspected COPD to entry * Age \> or = 40 years * Ex-smoker history (10 pack / year or more) * Acute Exacerbation: dyspnea of recent onset (less than 15 days) * The need for oxygen therapy with a moderate rate: \<6L / min to maintain SpO2 \> 90% (for oxygen dependent patient, the oxygen flow must be higher than flow at home) Exclusion Criteria: * Refusal to consent to participate in the study, * Indication for an imminent intubation according to the pulmonologist, * Sleep Apnea * NIV used at home * Lack of FreeO2 system available at the time of randomization * Non-autonomous and alone at home * Patient alone at home * Patients who live more than 50 km from the hospital * Patient already included in the study within 3 months