Pulmonary rehabilitation for the patient with severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Pulmonary rehabilitation measures acquired a poor reputation when early studies failed to demonstrate improvements in traditional pulmonary function tests. However, current evidence now indicates that such measures benefit patients with severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Alleviation of symptoms, improved quality of life, improved nutrition, and decreased health care costs are some of the benefits seen in patients who successfully complete a rehabilitation program. This article reviews the role of a comprehensive rehabilitation program in the continuing care of the patient with severe COPD, the components of such a program, and specific measures to be considered.