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.

Auteur
Margaret Barnett, COPD Nurse Specialist, Derriford Hospital, Plymouth, UK.

Texte du rabat
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a chronic disease, which encompasses chronic bronchitis, emphysema and chronic asthma. It is a disease that is predominately caused by smoking and unfortunately is on the increase. Although it is one of the most common diseases seen in primary care, until fairly recently has received very little recognition. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary disease in Primary Care is the first book of its kind to provide health professionals with practical advice and coping strategies for patients and their carers to help enhance their quality of life living with COPD.

Incorporating NICE COPD guidelines it provides practical guidance and information on the following key points:

• Assessment
• Accurate diagnosis
• Managing patients effectively to control their symptoms, particularly breathlessness.
  COPD management not only involves medical intervention but also involves caring for the patient from a holistic perspective, which is well illustrated in this book.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary disease in Primary Care is an essential resource guide for all health professionals caring for patients with COPD. This one book provides all the relevant information required for patients with this condition.

Contenu

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.