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Treating COPD
Long-Term Care Nursing Advisor, March 25, 2005
Affecting more than 16 million Americans, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a common problem in long-term care facilities. COPD results in progressive limitations of the airflow into and out of the lungs and shortness of breath.
While no single treatment can negate all the effects of COPD, a number of treatments have been effective in addressing problems associated with the disease.
The following treaments have been successfully used for COPD, according to Peter Barnes, DM, DSc, FRCP in his article "Modern Management of COPD in the Elderly," (Annals of Long-Term Care: Clinical Care and Aging 2001; 9[5]; 51-56)D:
- Smoking cessation
- Bronchodilators
- Anticholinergics
- Beta2-agonists
- Theophylline
- Corticosteroids
- Supplementary oxygen
- Vaccination, including influenza and polyvalent pneumococcal vaccine
- Neuraminidase inhibitors
- Therapies for dyspnea
- Respiratory stimulants
- Nonpharmacologic treatments /li>
- Exercise
- Proper nutrition
- Pulmonary rehabilitation
- Artificial ventilation
- Surgery
- Treatment of cor pulmonale (right heart failure)
Before starting any regimen, work with the resident's physician and interdisciplinary care team to develop the best possible treatment plan.
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