Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease in Primary Care

Until recently COPD was largely neglected by health professionals and viewed as the Cinderella of respiratory conditions. Many patients were seen as heart-sink cases with a self-inflicted disease. But views are now changing and COPD, like other chronic conditions managed within primary care, has taken on a higher profile within the Government and NHS agenda. This book reflects that change. It looks at the treatment of COPD in primary care: in the GP surgery, in outpatient clinics, and through district and community nursing. COPD management does not depend on purely medical intervention; much can be done to help these patients from a psychological, social and holistic perspective to cope with their everyday activities. Patients lead a frightening existence, struggling to breathe and to cope with their symptoms. The book helps nurses and other healthcare professionals to support these patients.

Foreword by Dr Rupert Jones. Preface. Acknowledgements. Abbreviations. 1 The Background to COPD. 2 Presentation of COPD. 3 Diagnosis and Patient Assessment. 4 Investigations to Diagnose COPD. 5 Nonpharmacological Management of Patients with COPD. 6 Pharmacological Management of Patients with Stable COPD. 7 Management of Acute Exacerbations of COPD. 8 Other Treatments in the Management of COPD. 9 COPD and Its Effects on Activities of Living. 10 Palliative Care in Patients with COPD. 11 Specialist Support within Primary Care for Patients with COPD. Glossary. References. Useful addresses. Index.