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Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in geriatric critical care
John E Heffner1, Kristin B Highland
1Pulmonary Divison, 812 CSB, Medical University of South Carolina, 96 Jonathan Lucas Street, P.O. Box 250623, Charleston, SC 29425, USA. heffnerj@musc.edu
Critical Care Clinics
|November 7, 2003
Summary
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) exacerbations pose risks for older patients, often requiring intensive care. While many survive ICU stays, underlying lung disease severity impacts long-term survival and quality of life.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonology
- Critical Care Medicine
Background:
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a progressive respiratory illness.
- Acute exacerbations are common in later stages, risking respiratory failure, particularly in older adults.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the clinical presentation and outcomes of COPD patients experiencing respiratory failure in the ICU.
- To highlight the challenges in managing COPD exacerbations and their long-term implications.
Main Methods:
- Review of therapeutic strategies employed in the ICU for COPD exacerbations.
- Analysis of patient survival and quality of life post-discharge.
Main Results:
- ICU therapy focuses on respiratory muscle support, infection control, and bronchodilation.
- Most patients survive ICU hospitalization for respiratory failure episodes.
Conclusions:
- Despite ICU survival, the severity of underlying COPD significantly predicts poor post-discharge survival.
- Quality of life remains compromised for COPD patients following severe exacerbations.