Causes of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) A group of diseases that cause airflow blockage and breathing-related problems. It includes asthma, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema. COPD is a slowly progressive disease of the airways that is characterized by a gradual loss of lung function. Incidence: COPD occurs most often in patients 25 years and older. COPD represents the fourth leading cause of death in the U.S.

Onset: COPD develops slowly, and it may be many years before symptoms start to develop.

Etiology: COPD is caused by repeated exposure to inhaled fumes and other irritants that damage the lung and airways. Cigarette smoking is the most common cause of COPD.

Clinical Findings: Cough productive of sputum, shortness of breath, wheezing, and chest tightness.

Three Types of COPD
■ Asthma: See Asthma.
■ Chronic bronchitis: Characterized by a productive cough lasting longer than 3 months during two consecutive years and airflow obstruction caused by excessive tracheobronchial mucus production.
■ Emphysema: Characterized by abnormal, permanent enlargement of the distal air spaces past the terminal bronchioles, loss of elasticity, distal air space distention, and alveolar septal destruction.

Nursing Focus
■ Position Pt to maximize ease of breathing (HOB 30°–45°).
■ During an exacerbation, assess and maintain ABCs, notify RT/MD and implement collaborative care such as meds and IV fluid as ordered.
■ Monitor vital signs and document response to prescribed therapies.

Patient Teaching
■ Provide Pt and family with literature on specific type of COPD.
■ Explain the actions, dosages, side effects, and adverse reactions of meds.
■ Provide instructions on the proper use of metered-dose inhalers.
■ Instruct the Pt to seek immediate medical attention if symptoms are not relieved with prescribed meds.