Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Essay examples.
COPD self-management education (COPDSME) programs attempt to enhance patient self-efficacy for managing symptoms. The purpose of this paper was to conduct a critical literature review that identified peer-reviewed articles assessing the effects of COPDSME on self-efficacy outcomes. Seven articles were located after an exhaustive search.COPD causes inflammation that affects the central airways, peripheral airways, pulmonary vasculature, lung parenchyma and alveoli. This results in a number of changes to the patient’s physiology. Additionally; these changes are narrowing and remodelling of the airways, increased quantity of goblet cells.An effective COPD management plan includes four components: (1) assess and monitor disease; (2) reduce risk factors; (3) manage stable COPD; (4) manage exacerbations. These goals should be reached with a minimum of side effects from treatment, a particular challenge in patients with COPD where comorbidities are common.
COPD is a progressive disease and clinical manifestations develop slowly. Early signs include chronic cough, usually with sputum production and dyspnea, especially upon exertion.Progressive disease state characterised by airflow limitation that is not fully reversible. Suspected in patients with a history of smoking, occupational and environmental risk factors, or a personal or family history of chronic lung disease. Presents with progressive shortness of breath, wheeze.
To this aim, this essay will draw on the experiences of COPD patients to explore the reality of living with a terminal illness. Further, it will discuss the demands that chronic diseases impose on the relationship between patients and their health care providers, with particular emphasis.
