| What is COPD? COPD is a
chronic disease of the lungs that causes blocking of
the airways. The most common type is a combination
of chronic bronchitis and emphysema. In bronchitis
the airways are narrow and partly clogged. In
emphysema, some of the air sacs deep in the lung
have become damaged.
Causes
COPD almost always results from smoking.
Occupational exposure such as chemical fumes and
organic dusts (grain, cotton, or wood) can also
cause COPD.
Signs and Symptoms of COPD
- Coughing and sputum
- Shortness of Breathe
- Recurrent chest infections or bronchitis
- Wheezing
- Fluid build-up (swelling at ankles and
bluish skin)
- Barrel-shaped chest
- Fever
Instruction on Preventative Management
- Avoid tobacco and alcohol
- Maintain proper weight
- Treat infection early
- Use respiratory devices properly
- Reduce exposure to environmental hazards
- Get a flu vaccination
Report!
- Fever
- Change is sputum color, consistency and
amount or change in cough pattern
- Increased shortness of breath
Home health care can assist with coping
strategies:
- Instruct to avoid fatigue
- Thin secretions with: increased fluids,
using a humidifier and using effective breathing
methods
- Instruct to exhale during strenuous activity
and teach purse lip and abdominal breathing
- Instruct on conservation techniques /
organize time and space
- Instruct on exercise program per doctor’s
orders
- Instruction on stress management and
relaxation exercises
- Instruction on good nutrition: small
frequent meals, eating slowly, resting before
eating
What can home health care do to assist patients with chronic
COPD?
- Observation and assessment
- Cardiac assessment
- Home safety evaluation
- Pulse Oximetry
- IV antibiotics
- Pain Management
- Disease process education
- Diuretic therapy
- Electrolyte replacement
- Breathing techniques
- Monitoring
Oxygen/nebulizers/inhalers
- Lab work
- Instruction percussion
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- Ambulation techniques
- Postural drainage
- Energy conservation
- Suction
- Transfer techniques
- Weight monitoring
- Assistance with ADLs
- Fluid intake education
- Trach care
- Instruction in medication regimen
- Enteral feedings
- Physical/speech/occupational therapy
- Social service evaluation
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