Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): Patient Management

Objectives: Discuss the characteristics of COPD. Describe the physiology of normal lungs vs. lungs damaged by COPD. Identify the causes, functional effects, and preventive measures for COPD. Summarize the characteristic clinical findings in a patient presenting with COPD. Outline the lifestyle changes and pulmonary rehabilitation components of a long-term treatment plan. Describe pharmacologic, oxygen therapy, and surgical interventions for COPD. Discuss acute exacerbations of COPD and their treatment.

Description: Causes and current treatments for COPD. Covers the characteristics and causes of COPD, functional effects, preventive measures, lifestyle changes, long-term treatment planning, interventions, and acute exacerbations.