Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): Patient Management

Upon completion of this course, you will have increased your understanding of the causes of and the current treatments for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Specific learning objectives to address potential knowledge gaps include: 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.