PULMONARY DISEASE, CHRONIC OBSTRUCTIVE (COPD): NONINVASIVE POSITIVE PRESSURE VENTILATION

Course overview

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) refers to a debilitating and life-threatening condition characterized by persistent obstruction of the airway, progressive distention of the alveoli in the lungs, and destruction of the pulmonary parenchyma. Treatment of COPD is multidisciplinary and focuses on adherence to a long-term treatment plan that involves pharmacology and patient education about lifestyle modification. This continuing education module is designed to give the reader/learner an increased understanding of current knowledge about COPD and the use of NPPV for patients with COPD, including information on the causes, prevalence, risk factors, and treatment strategies of COPD. One contact hour of continuing education credit is available for those who successfully complete the post-test and evaluation form.