PULMONARY DISEASE, CHRONIC OBSTRUCTIVE (COPD): FATIGUE

Course overview

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) refers to several debilitating and potentially life-threatening diseases characterized by obstructed airflow in the lungs. COPD is usually progressive and is often accompanied by airway hyperreactivity that may be partially reversible. Chronic bronchitis, the most common form of COPD, is characterized by hyperplasia of the mucous glands and is defined as the presence of a daily productive cough for 3 months or more per year over a period of 2 consecutive years. This continuing education module is designed to give the reader/learner an increased understanding of current knowledge about COPD-related fatigue, including information on its causes, prevalence, risk factors, and treatment strategies. One contact hour of continuing education credit is available for those who successfully complete the post-test and evaluation form.