Managing Breathing with COPD

Course overview

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is the fourth-leading cause of death in the U.S. and a major cause of disability (National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, 2022). COPD is characterized by airflow limitation that is largely irreversible, progressive, and associated with an abnormal inflammatory response in the airways resulting from exposure to noxious substances. The evidence-based Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) guidelines provide strategies for healthcare providers to prevent, diagnose, and manage COPD. The goal of this course is to equip nurses and respiratory therapists with knowledge of the incidence, causes, symptoms, and evidence-based management of COPD.