COPD Flashcards
How can COPD be characterised?
Airflow obstruction
Describe the airflow obstruction in COPD
Progressive, not fully reversible, won’t change lots over several months
What is COPD predominantly caused by?
Smoking
What is COPD an umbrella term for?
Emphysema and chronic bronchitis
Describe the pathophysiology of COPD
Mucous gland hyperplasia
Loss of cilial function
Emphysema
Chronic inflammation and fibrosis due to macrophages and neutrophils
What are some causes of COPD?
Smoking
Alpha 1 anti-trypsin deficiency
Industrial exposure eg soot
How can COPD be managed?
COPD care bundle Smoking cessation Pulmonary rehabilitation Bronchodilator Antimuscarinic Steroids Mucolytics Diet LTOT, lung volume reduction
Name a mucolytic
Carbocysteine
Who should be involved in the care of a COPD patient?
Physician, GP, specialist nurse, physio, pharmacist, OT, dieticians
What is the purpose of LTOT?
Treat end organ damage to prevent damage to brain, kidney etc
ie NOT to treat SOB
How should LTOT be given?
Continuously for at least 16hrs a day
When would LTOT be offered?
If pO2 consistently below 7.3kPa (<8 in for pulmonale)
What are contraindications for LTOT?
Smoker
Retains high levels of CO2
What does pulmonary rehabilitation aim to do?
Break the cycle of patients avoiding exercise because of breathlessness which leads to social isolation and inactivity which worsens symptoms
Muscles weaken, patients feel more depressed, they avoid activity more
How long is a pulmonary rehabilitation programme?
6-12 weeks
