Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Flashcards
Definition (COPD)
a group of diseases including a form of asthma, CHRONIC bronchitis, and emphysema
Facts
- incidence is higher among women and smokers
- CHEST PAIN IS NOT A SYMPTOM!!!!
- sputum is tenacious (firm), translucent, & grayish white
Asthma
Triggers:
-allergens
- air pollutants
- resp infections
- exercise
- weather changes
- emotional stress
S&S:
-SOB
- Coughing & clear sputum
- +/- (with or without) wheezing
increases the risk of developing complications such as bronchiectasis & cardiac problems
Chronic Bronchitis
S&S:
-persistent, productive cough for 3 months in at least 2 consecutive years
- wheezing
- recurrent resp infections
- SOB
- episodes of hypoxia (low 02 levels) begin to occur because of mucus buildup in the bronchial tree, causing C02 retention
- emphysema may develop over time
Emphysema
has its own deck
Risk factors
smoking
prolonged exposure to occupational chemicals
allergens
heredity
aging
pollution
Managing COPD
confirm diagnosis via certain tests (sputum culture) & determine the severity and effects of the disease on the pt’s quality of life
-get a thorough health Hx
limit exposure to triggers
educate pt
collaborative practices:
-smoking cessation
-appropriate pharmacotherapy
=monitor effects of meds
=continuous assessment & monitoring of control & severity
=O2 therapy
establish a goal and action plan
regular follow-ups
Meds (COPD)
Bronchodilators:
- Albuterol/Salbutamol (Ventolin)
- Ipratropium (Atrovent)
Corticosteroids:
-Fluticasone propionate (Flovent)
usually, 1-2 inhalations r sufficient to relieve symptoms for 4hr
the fullness of the inhaler should be evaluated periodically by placing it in a bowl of water
- if full, the inhaler will sink
- if empty, the inhaler floats
Types of inhalers
Dry powder inhaler (DPI)
Metered-dose inhaler
Nebulizer
