Patho & Risk Factors
What are the two main diseases that make up COPD?
Chronic bronchitis and emphysema
What is a common early symptom of COPD?
Chronic cough with sputum production
Name a short-acting bronchodilator used for quick relief.
Albuterol
What position promotes optimal breathing in COPD?
Tripod or sitting leaning forward
What is an intervention (education) that can slow disease progression?
Smoking cessation
What is the most common cause of COPD?
Cigarette smoking
What arterial blood gas finding is typical in COPD?
Respiratory acidosis (↑CO₂, ↓O₂)
What class of drug does tiotropium belong to?
Long-acting anticholinergic (LAMA)
What breathing technique helps prevent airway collapse?
Pursed-lip breathing
What should be avoided to prevent anxiety and dyspnea episodes?
Caffeine, stress, and environmental irritants
What is the pathophysiologic hallmark of emphysema?
Destruction of alveolar walls leading to decreased surface area for gas exchange
What test confirms the diagnosis of COPD?
Pulmonary function test (spirometry)
Why must patients rinse their mouth after using inhaled corticosteroids?
To prevent oral thrush
Why should COPD patients avoid high concentrations of oxygen?
It can suppress their hypoxic drive to breathe
What is cor pulmonale?
Right-sided heart failure secondary to pulmonary disease
What results from chronic hypoxia and pulmonary vasoconstriction in COPD?
Pulmonary hypertension → cor pulmonale
What chest assessment finding is typical in emphysema?
Barrel chest and diminished breath sounds
What combination inhaler includes budesonide and formoterol?
Symbicort
How often should patients receive pneumococcal and flu vaccines?
Annually for flu; every 5 years for pneumococcal
What dietary advice should be given to COPD patients?
Small, frequent meals high in protein and calories
What are two genetic or environmental risk factors besides smoking?
Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency and occupational exposure (dust, chemicals)
What ABG value indicates severe hypoxemia?
PaO₂ < 60 mmHg
What is the purpose of using supplemental oxygen therapy in COPD?
To improve oxygenation and decrease workload of the heart
What nursing intervention helps mobilize secretions?
Encourage fluids (2–3L/day), postural drainage, and chest physiotherapy
What are two signs of COPD exacerbation?
Increased dyspnea and sputum purulence/volume