Outpatient care of COPD patients

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a disorder of airflow limitation that is often progressive. Interventions aimed at slowing this progression include smoking cessation, avoidance of exacerbating factors, and prevention or early treatment of infection. Reversible symptoms can be controlled pharmacologically, with supplemental oxygen prescribed when needed. Finally, quality of life can be improved through education and pulmonary rehabilitation.