Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease - COPD

Definition
Refers to a group of  respiratory  conditions  characterized  by persistent, progressive airflow obstruction and shortness of breath.

Cause
Causative factors are smoking, occupational exposure, allergy, pollution, emphysema, chronic bronchitis, asthma, and respiratory infection.

Caregiver Hot Tips

1. If the individual smokes, stress the importance of eliminating this activity.  Try to limit or eliminate totally the individual’s use of cigarettes.
   
   
2. If the individual uses oxygen be sure you follow the doctor’s order as to how many liters to use and the adverse effects if more are used.  MORE IS OFTEN NOT BETTER
   
   
3. Usually an oxygen concentrator is ordered. Make sure there is enough tubing to allow the individual freedom to ambulate when necessary in the home.
   
   
4. Small frequent meals are better than the usual 3 meals a day as the contents of the abdomen presses on the diaphragm and could increase breathing difficulties.



5. Medications are an important part of the treatment of COPD. This provides control over the symptoms presented by this disease.
   
   
6. Make a list of all medications and dosage the individual is taking. Read all the information sent by the pharmacy regarding dosage, adverse effects, and interaction.
   
   
7. This list should be updated frequently for dosage and any new medications ordered. Take this list with you in the event the individual has to go to the hospital or to a visit to the doctor.
   
   
8. Make sure the individual is able to administer inhalers or nebulizer treatment correctly and as ordered by the doctor. Report any non compliance to the doctor.



9. It is important to keep all follow up doctor appointments. As a caregiver it is important to know the progress of the individual.
   
   
10. If the individual is living alone safely and cannot cook their own meals then MEALS ON WHEELS can provide assistance.
    
    
11. Again if the individual lives alone have an updated list of all emergency numbers in the event they are in need of assistance.
    
    
12. This list is also important for you to have as a caregiver for assistance when shopping or taking a vacation. This would apply if you are giving care 24/7.
    
    
13. If there is any increased difficulty breathing, weakness, low grade fever, or change in color or amount of sputum the doctor should be notified.
    
    
14. If the difficulty in breathing does not subside then 911 should be called.
    
    
15. If antibiotics are prescribed they should be taken as ordered and they should finish the prescription.
    
    
16. Talk to your doctor about the individual receiving the pneumonia and flu vaccine.
    
    
17. The individual might have to be encouraged to get up in the morning, participate in their care and get dressed.
    
    
18. Preparing their breakfast and lunch should also be emphasized to keep them as independent as possible.