COPD

Question 1

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

Answer 1

group of lung conditions that cause breathing difficulties:

-emphysema – damage to the air sacs in the lungs
-chronic bronchitis – long-term inflammation of the airways

Question 2

Bronchitis (COPD) sign and symptoms

Answer 2

Acute bronchitis - usually a secondary bacterial infection of the bronchi.- usually after cold or flu,

CHRONICK Bronchitis - disorder cough with sputum for 3 mounts in 2 successive years.
- prolonged irritation of the bronchial epithelium , often worsened by damp or cold condition.
-often consequence of cigarette smoking, urban fog, vehicular exhaust fumes, industrial pollutants.

SIGN and SYMPTOMS:
- increased mucus blocking airways
- persistence cough and infection
Oedema of airway wall, narrowing the passageway and obstruction of airflow
- fibrosis of the airways and stiffening of airway walls .
- Dyspnoea (breathlessness)

Question 3

Emphysema (COPD),

Answer 3

• permanent enlargement of the air spaces as a result of the destruction of the alveolar walls.

-usually develops as a result of long-term
inflammatory conditions or irritation of the airways, e.g.
in smokers or coal miners,
-destruction of supporting elastic tissue in the lung,

Question 4

COPD exacerbation ( sudden worsening)

Answer 4

• increased Dyspnoea,
  -increased sputum production (containing pus)
• increased cough
• upper airway symptoms such as cold or sore throat
  -increased wheeze
• fluid retention,
• acute confusion
• worsening of previously stabled condition

SEVERE:
- dyspnoea, tachypnoea, purse-lip breathing, use of accessory muscles, acute confusion, new onset cyanosis, new onset peripheral oedema, marked reduction in activities of daily living

Question 5

COPD Management (p214)

Answer 5

• Oxygen:
  target 88-92%, venturi mask, nasal cannulae, if RR >30 start with 4l increase to 6l if not effect
• Bronchodilators:
  Salbutamol and ipratropium (only once) , limit nebulisation to 6min.
  -if severe, blue light transfer, otherwise, referral to their GP, respiratory team or advanced paramedic.