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A model of chronic dyspnea
1University of Texas-Houston School of Nursing, USA. cmccarley@sfasu.edu
Image--The Journal of Nursing Scholarship
|October 21, 1999
Summary
Chronic dyspnea in COPD patients requires a new model. This model differentiates acute from chronic cases and guides care by focusing on physical, psychologic, and sociocultural consequences.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Nursing Science
- Health Psychology
Background:
- Dyspnea significantly impacts the quality of life for millions with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
- Existing models inadequately address the complexities of chronic dyspnea in patient care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an overview of dyspnea.
- To differentiate between acute and chronic dyspnea.
- To propose a new model for managing chronic dyspnea in COPD patients.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of dyspnea and COPD using CINAHL and MEDLINE (1980-1998).
- Analysis of studies across nursing, medicine, exercise physiology, and respiratory therapy.
Main Results:
- Current dyspnea models lack differentiation between acute and chronic forms.
- Existing models are insufficient for interventions targeting long-term chronic dyspnea consequences.
Conclusions:
- A new model defines chronic dyspnea as distress with physical, psychologic, and sociocultural impacts.
- This model can guide research and clinical practice by using consequences as outcome measures.