Management of COPD

Management
Look for a cause, eg infection, pneumothorax.

Prior to discharge, liaise with GP regarding steroid reduction, domiciliary oxygen, smoking, pneumococcal & ‘flu vaccinations.




More advanced disease:
Consider pulmonary rehabilitation in moderate/severe disease.
Consider long-term oxygen therapy if PaO2 <7.3kPa.

Indications for surgery:
recurrent pneumothoraces;
isolated bullous disease;
lung volume reduction surgery (selected patients).

Assess social circumstances and support required.
Identify and treat depression.
Air travel may be hazardous if PaO2 <6.7kPa; check availability of O2.