Breathless Betty Week 2

Question 1

What to pay attention to in relation to sputum

Answer 1

change in colour, texture, volume

Question 2

Alerting symptoms of COPD

Answer 2

cough for > 3 weeks
history of smoking associated with haemoptysis
change in ‘smoker’s cough’ - infection, diseases
normal breath sounds with expiratory polyphonic wheeze

Question 3

Is 78 mL/min/1.73m2 a low reading for eGFR?

Answer 3

> 90 considered normal
but, decreases with age, generally alright
not linked with COPD

Question 4

Difference between chronic bronchitis and emphysema?

Answer 4

COPD encompasses both
in both conditions will see a bit of the other
CB - symptomatic def.
E - pathological def.

Question 5

COPD xray

Answer 5

hyperexpanded lungs
see more ribs
diaphragm very flat, no curvature
lungs relatively large
visible bronchioles - can be emphysema

Question 6

Use of HRCT scan?

Answer 6

lung structure

Question 7

Use of CT with contrast

Answer 7

vasculature, clots

Question 8

First things to consider after diagnosis

Answer 8

smoking cessation
vaccinations - influenza, pneumococcal
self-management
pulmonary rehab - keeping active
assess co-morbities - osteoperosis, heart, mental health