COPD

Question 1

What does COPD stand for?

Answer 1

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Question 2

What is COPD

Answer 2

• A lung disease

- Characterised by a progressive development of airflow limitation

Question 3

Is COPD reversible

Answer 3

No, but treatable

Question 4

Main cause of COPD

Answer 4

Chronic inflammatory response to noxious particles or gases, irritating the lung

Question 5

Examples of irritants causing COPD

Answer 5

• Smoking
• Indoor air pollution e.g. factory workers
• Dust
• Genetic condition

Question 6

What is the one genetic condition that can cause COPD

Answer 6

Alpha 1 antitrypsin deficiency

Question 7

What does A1 antitrypsin deficiency do to the lungs?

Answer 7

Breaks down the lung parenchyma (alveoli, alveoli ducts)

Question 8

5 Signs and Symptoms of COPD

Answer 8

• Productive cough
• Pursed lip breathing
• Tripod positioning
• Cyanosis
• Low O2 Saturations

Question 9

2 Conditions that are involved/cause COPD

Answer 9

Bronchitis & Emphysema

Question 10

How often do patients with COPD need flu vaccines? and why?

Answer 10

Yearly. To decrease risk of respiratory infections

Question 11

Management

Answer 11

• Vaccines
• Smoking cessation
• Avoidance of triggers
• Bronchodilators for management
• Oxygen while in hospital

Question 12

Optimal O2 saturation levels for someone with COPD

Answer 12

88 - 92%

Question 13

What happens if someones 02 saturations are less that 88%

Answer 13

Organs are well perfused. Therefore cannot function. Delirium may occur.