Main description:

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.

Contents:

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.