COPD Flashcards
What is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)?
COPD is a largely preventable and treatable disease characterized by persistent respiratory symptoms and airflow limitation that is usually progressive and not fully reversible.
What are the symptoms of COPD?
Symptoms of COPD include dyspnoea, wheeze, chronic cough, and regular sputum production.
What is the main risk factor for developing COPD?
Tobacco smoking is the main risk factor for developing COPD.
What is asthma-COPD overlap syndrome (ACOS)?
ACOS is characterized by persistent airflow limitation that displays features of both asthma and COPD.
What is the primary aim of treatment for COPD?
The primary aim of treatment is to reduce symptoms and exacerbations and improve quality of life.
What non-drug treatments are recommended for COPD patients?
Non-drug treatments include smoking cessation, pulmonary rehabilitation, active cycle of breathing techniques, positive expiratory pressure devices, dietetic input, and interventional procedures.
What drug classes are used to treat COPD?
Bronchodilators and inhaled corticosteroids are drug classes used to treat COPD. Examples of bronchodilators include salmeterol (brand name: Serevent) and tiotropium (brand name: Spiriva).
What is cor pulmonale?
Cor pulmonale is a complication of COPD that refers to right-sided heart failure caused by pulmonary hypertension.
Who should receive pulmonary rehabilitation?
Pulmonary rehabilitation should be offered to appropriate patients, including those who view themselves as being functionally disabled by COPD.
What vaccinations should COPD patients receive?
COPD patients should receive the pneumococcal vaccine, annual influenza vaccine, and COVID-19 vaccine.
What should the choice of inhaler device be based on in COPD patients?
The choice of inhaler device should be based on the patient’s preference and ability to use the inhaler.
What should be done when prescribing an inhaler to a COPD patient?
When prescribing an inhaler, patients should be trained on how to use the device and be able to demonstrate satisfactory inhaler technique, and continue to have their inhaler technique regularly assessed.
When should nebulised treatment be considered in COPD patients?
Nebulised treatment should be considered for patients with distressing or disabling breathlessness despite maximal use of inhalers, and continued if an improvement is seen in symptoms, ability to undertake activities of daily living, exercise capacity, or lung function.
What initial empirical treatment should be offered to all COPD patients?
For initial empirical treatment, offer a short-acting bronchodilator as required to relieve breathlessness and exercise limitation. This can either be a short-acting beta2 agonist (SABA) such as Salbutamol (brand name: Ventolin) or Terbutaline (brand name: Bricanyl), or a short-acting muscarinic antagonist (SAMA) such as Ipratropium (brand name: Atrovent) or Oxitropium (brand name: Oxivent).
What should be ensured before considering step-up treatment options for COPD patients?
Before considering step-up treatment options, ensure that COPD is confirmed spirometrically, relevant vaccinations are given, non-drug treatment options have been optimized including smoking cessation, and that a short-acting bronchodilator is being used.