Pathophysiology of Chronic Airflow Limitation

Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease Chronic Bronchitis Presence of chronic productive cough for 3 months in 2 successive years in a patient in whom other causes of chronic cough have been excluded Frequent respiratory infections Hx of cigarette smoking for many years Hypoxemia & Hypercapnia result from hypoventilation Bluish-red color of skin Polycythemia – body’s attempt to compensate for chronic hypoxemia by increasing production of red blood cells

COPD -- Interaction of Chronic Bronchitis & Emphysema

Chest Physiotherapy

Chest Percussion Cupped Hand Technique

Postural Drainage

Nursing Care Management Risk for Infection Assess: Change in color, consistency, quantity, odor & viscosity of sputum; difficulty mobilizing secretions; foul oral odor; increased dyspnea; fever; chills; diaphoresis; changes in respiratory rate & quality; breath sounds; hypoxemia; hypercapnia – VS & pulse oximetry Nsg Action: Humidification; specimen collection; medication administration Pt Education: Hand-washing; avoid contact with infected individuals; care & cleaning of home respiratory equipment; when to seek medical attention; steroid use; medication use