Unit 5.1 - COPD

COPD

Partially reversible airway obstruction and hyperinflation.

Patient is not able to exhale CO2, limited area for gas exchange, air gets trapped.

There are periods when COPD is more and less active.

There is no cure.

Emphysema and Chronic Bronchitis

Emphysema - air becomes trapped in the collapsed alveoli.

Bronchitis - bronchioles are inflamed, airway becomes narrow with increased mucus, cilia becomes damage meaning individual needs a strong cough to remove mucus.

COPD Assessment

History - smoking, environment exposure

Signs and Symptoms - shortness of breath, cough lasting > 3 months, weight loss, barrel chest, cyanosis, nail clubbing

Psychosocial Assessment - depression, anxiety, coping

Patient Teaching

Purse lip breathing and diaphragmatic breathing.

Encourage strong coughing technique.

Encourage progressive activity.