Introduction Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) affects 210 million people worldwide, and kills more than 4 million people every (Sinha, Singla, & Chowdhury, 2017, p1). COPD, which includes bronchitis and emphysema, is characterized by shortness of breath, along with cough and sputum production. The disease slowly and progressively, restricts airflow to the lungs, considerably decreasing quality of life. It is the fourth most common cause of death in the world (Dobrowolska, 2014), p1). It is the fourth most common cause of death in the world (Dobrowolska, 2014, p1). Total deaths from COPD are projected to increase by more than 30% in the next 10 years (WHO, 2017). Urgent action is required to reduce the underlying risk factors; including
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Pathophysiology of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
The pathophysiology of COPD begins with damage to a person’s airway and subsequently the air sacs in the lungs. It progresses from a cough with mucus, to difficulty breathing (Ronald, 2016). The pathogenesis of COPD consists of two main features which are; airflow limitations during forced exhalation caused by loss of elastic recoil, and airflow obstruction caused by mucus hypersecretion, mucosal edema, and bronchospasm (Lewis, 2014). Inhaled irritants promote the accumulation of inflammatory cells such as neutrophils, T-lymphocytes, B-cells, and macrophages. When these cells are activated, they initiate an inflammatory cascade that …show more content…
The use of the social model of health, may benefit those diagnosed with COPD, as the emphasis is on injury rather than disease (Tubach, 2013, p2). Since older adults experience higher risks of chronic disease, including COPD (Healthy People, 2017), it is essential for them to actively modify their lifestyle, such as avoiding smoking (WHO, 2017). Conversely, the chronic care model is directed towards prevention of disease and complications; thus, maintaining patients’ quality of life. Effective chronic care is measured by how well the patient can self-manage their disease daily. For a successful improvement in outcomes, there needs to be an active collaboration between the patient and practice team. Health care providers (HCPs) are expected to motivate patients with COPD to adapt to behaviours that help manage illness. In order to effectively educate patients with COPD, appropriate knowledge and resources must be applied to achieve their goal (Kenny & Tidy, 2015). Older adults may have difficulty taking care of themselves and may require extra assistance to guide their well-being. Hence, the importance of HCP’s providing such reliant patients with the skill set to promote health behaviours is key. Upon success in implementing the aforementioned models of HP, there will be a gradual decrease in emergency room visits and
Pathophysiology of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
The pathophysiology of COPD begins with damage to a person’s airway and subsequently the air sacs in the lungs. It progresses from a cough with mucus, to difficulty breathing (Ronald, 2016). The pathogenesis of COPD consists of two main features which are; airflow limitations during forced exhalation caused by loss of elastic recoil, and airflow obstruction caused by mucus hypersecretion, mucosal edema, and bronchospasm (Lewis, 2014). Inhaled irritants promote the accumulation of inflammatory cells such as neutrophils, T-lymphocytes, B-cells, and macrophages. When these cells are activated, they initiate an inflammatory cascade that …show more content…
The use of the social model of health, may benefit those diagnosed with COPD, as the emphasis is on injury rather than disease (Tubach, 2013, p2). Since older adults experience higher risks of chronic disease, including COPD (Healthy People, 2017), it is essential for them to actively modify their lifestyle, such as avoiding smoking (WHO, 2017). Conversely, the chronic care model is directed towards prevention of disease and complications; thus, maintaining patients’ quality of life. Effective chronic care is measured by how well the patient can self-manage their disease daily. For a successful improvement in outcomes, there needs to be an active collaboration between the patient and practice team. Health care providers (HCPs) are expected to motivate patients with COPD to adapt to behaviours that help manage illness. In order to effectively educate patients with COPD, appropriate knowledge and resources must be applied to achieve their goal (Kenny & Tidy, 2015). Older adults may have difficulty taking care of themselves and may require extra assistance to guide their well-being. Hence, the importance of HCP’s providing such reliant patients with the skill set to promote health behaviours is key. Upon success in implementing the aforementioned models of HP, there will be a gradual decrease in emergency room visits and