Inpatient pulmonary rehabilitation. A team approach to the more fragile patient

Despite having fixed changes in lung structure, patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and interstitial pulmonary fibrosis can be helped by pulmonary rehabilitation. They learn that shortness of breath is not to be feared but rather accepted and tolerated as a step toward eventual successful rehabilitation. They are taught to accept the reality of their disease but not to dwell on its limitations. They learn to fight depression and anxiety and to overcome their disability within a realistic framework. From the exercise program they build strength, endurance, and confidence and become more independent and mobile. Even very compromised patients can benefit from an intensive inpatient rehabilitation program.