Week 10 - Goals when Treating COPD

Question 1

What are the goals of care for COPD?

Answer 1

• improve gas exchange and reduce CO2 retention

Question 2

What are ways to manage the symptoms of COPD? (8)

Answer 2

1. Drug therapy
2. Breathing techniques - pursed lips
3. Positioning - tripod
4. Effective coughing
5. Oxygen therapy
6. Exercise conditioning
7. Suctioning
8. Hydration - breaks up mucus

note that all of us run on CO2 receptors. COPD pts run on hypoxia (99-92%), so body keeps telling them to breath

Question 3

If the goal is to prevent weight loss, what can be done to reach this? (3)

Answer 3

• 4-6 small meals a day
• positioning and breathing techniques
• High calorie, high protein

Question 4

If the goal is to minimize anxiety, how can we reach this? (3)

Answer 4

• Clear plan in place during acute episode
• Support
• Antianxiety therapy for severe cases

Question 5

If the goal is to prevent respiratory infections, what can be done to reach this? (2)

Answer 5

• Avoid crowds
• vaccinations

Question 6

COPD pathology map

Answer 6