Chronic

Obstructive
Pulmonary
Disease
Presented by: Venus Cria Michelle Athena Refama
BSN 4B
What is COPD?
A pulmonary disease that causes chronic
obstruction of airflow from the lungs

COPD is not a single disease but a group of

lung conditions that include chronic
bronchitis and emphysema.

 Limited airflow
 Inability to fully
exhale
 What are the Causes?
People who work in
certain industries or jobs
The harmful chemicals in tobacco smoke that expose them to dust,
irritate and damage the airways and air fumes, chemicals, or other
sacs in the lungs, leading to chronic lung irritants
inflammation and obstruction.

Prolonged exposure to indoor

air pollutants
 What are the Causes?

the lack of AAT protein in the lungs allows

enzymes like neutrophil elastase to damage
lung tissue

AAT is produced by the liver and plays a

crucial role in protecting the lungs from
damage by enzymes like neutrophil
elastase.
 Pathophysiology
Damage of lung Loss of elasticity
Prolonged tissue
exposure to
factors Decreased expansion of
lungs
trigger an Alveolar destruction
inflammatory Hypoxemia
response.
Air trapped in the lungs

Hypercapnia
Lung volume

2 Components of
Chronic inflammation COPD:
Mucus production
Bronchoconstriction
-Chronic Bronchitis
-Emphysema
Signs and
Symptoms
1. Chronic Cough
-A persistent, long-term cough is a common early symptom of COPD.
This cough may produce mucus (sputum), which can be clear, white,
yellow, green, or even blood-tinged.
2. Shortness of Breath (Dyspnea)
-Gradual onset of breathlessness, especially during physical activity, is
a hallmark symptom of COPD. As the disease progresses,
breathlessness can occur with less exertion and even at rest.
3. Wheezing
-It results from narrowed airways and is a common symptom of
COPD.
4.Chest Tightness
-Some individuals with COPD may experience a sensation of
tightness or pressure in the chest, which can be uncomfortable.
Signs and
Symptoms
5. Fatigue
-COPD can cause general fatigue and a reduced ability to tolerate physical
activity due to the increased effort required for breathing.

6. Unintended Weight Loss

-Severe COPD may lead to unintentional weight loss, as the effort
required for breathing can cause individuals to burn more calories and lose
appetite.

7. Barrel Chest
- In advanced stages of COPD, the chest may take on a "barrel" shape due
to increased lung volume and reduced lung elasticity.

8. Cyanosis
-In very severe cases of COPD, the skin and lips may take on a bluish or
grayish tint (cyanosis), indicating a lack of oxygen in the bloodstream.
 Diagnostic
Tests
Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs): Pulmonary function
tests are crucial for diagnosing and assessing the severity of 2. DLCO (Diffusion Capacity of the
COPD. The two primary PFTs used for COPD diagnosis Lungs for Carbon Monoxide)
are: This test measures how effectively the
lungs transfer oxygen from the air sacs
1. Spirometry into the bloodstream
-the most common test for COPD. During this
test, the individual breathes into a machine
called a spirometer, which measures lung
function. It assesses lung capacity and
measures two key parameters: Forced
Expiratory Volume in one second (FEV1) and
Forced Vital Capacity (FVC)
 Diagnostic
3. Chest X-ray
Tests
A chest X-ray may be performed to rule
4. CT Scan (Computed Tomography)
-High-resolution CT scans can
out other lung conditions and to identify
provide detailed images of the lungs
any signs of advanced COPD or
and can help detect emphysema and
complications like lung infections or
other structural lung abnormalities.
pneumonia.
 Diagnostic
Tests
5. Arterial Blood Gas (ABG) Analysis
6. Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency
Testing
-ABG analysis measures the levels -Testing for this deficiency may be
of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the considered in cases where there is a
blood and assesses how well the family history of COPD or emphysema.
lungs are oxygenating the
bloodstream

7. Electrocardiogram (ECG)
An ECG may be performed to assess
heart function, as COPD can lead to
heart problems in advanced stages.
 Medical Management
Lifestyle Changes:

1. Smoking Cessation
-The most critical step in managing COPD is quitting smoking. Smoking
cessation can significantly slow the progression of the disease and reduce
symptoms.

2. Avoiding Irritants
- Patients should avoid exposure to secondhand smoke, air pollution, and
occupational lung irritants as much as possible.

3. Exercise
- Engaging in regular physical activity can help improve lung function,
endurance, and overall quality of life. Pulmonary rehabilitation programs
are designed specifically for individuals with COPD
Medications
1. Bronchodilators
-These medications help relax the airway muscles, making it easier to
breathe. There are short-acting and long-acting bronchodilators, and
they can be administered via inhalers or nebulizers.

2. Corticosteroids
- Inhaled corticosteroids may be prescribed for individuals with more
severe symptoms or frequent exacerbations to reduce airway
inflammation.

3. Phosphodiesterase-4 Inhibitors
- These drugs are used in severe COPD cases with chronic bronchitis to
reduce exacerbations.

4. Mucolytics: Mucolytic medications can help thin mucus and make

it easier to clear from the airways.
3. Oxygen Therapy

In cases of severe COPD, supplemental oxygen may be prescribed to

maintain adequate blood oxygen levels. Oxygen therapy can improve
exercise capacity and reduce the risk of complications.

4. Pulmonary Rehabilitation
- Pulmonary rehabilitation programs offer a structured approach to improving
lung function and quality of life. These programs typically include exercise
training, education, and psychological support.

5. Surgery
In some advanced cases of COPD, surgical options may be considered:
Lung Volume Reduction Surgery (LVRS)- This surgery involves removing
damaged lung tissue to improve lung function.
 Nursing Management:
1. Assessment and Diagnosis

 Conduct a thorough assessment of the patient's respiratory status, including

monitoring vital signs, oxygen saturation levels, and respiratory rate.
 Assess the patient's medical history, including smoking history, previous
exacerbations, and comorbid conditions.
 Assist in the diagnostic process, which may involve pulmonary function tests,
chest X-rays, and arterial blood gas analysis.

2. Provide comprehensive education about COPD, including its causes,

symptoms, and progression.
 Teach patients about the importance of smoking cessation and offer resources
and support for quitting.
 Educate patients on proper medication management, including inhaler
techniques and the importance of adherence to prescribed medications.
 Instruct patients on techniques for managing dyspnea (breathlessness), such as
pursed-lip breathing and diaphragmatic breathing.
 Nursing Management:
3. Oxygen Therapy:

 Administer oxygen therapy as prescribed, and monitor oxygen saturation levels.

 Educate patients on the safe use of oxygen equipment, including the use of
oxygen concentrators, portable tanks, and nasal cannulas.
 Monitor for signs of oxygen toxicity or oxygen dependency and report changes in
the patient's oxygen needs.

4. Nutrition and Diet

 Assess the patient's nutritional status and collaborate with dietitians or

nutritionists to develop appropriate dietary plans.
 Encourage a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.
 Monitor weight changes, as significant weight loss can be indicative of disease
progression.
Thanks
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