An innovative approach to respiratory management for long-term care patients

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a condition that incapacitates a person physically, psychologically, and socially. Most of the supportive literature of respiratory care programs addresses noninstitutionalized patients. Many long-term care patients have relinquished much of their responsibility for self-care and health promotion. Patients often lack knowledge of the meaning of their disease, the role of exercise, nutrition, smoking, and medication. These factors, coupled with long-term institutionalization, contribute to progressively increasing disability. Our COPD program builds on the concepts of enablement and excess disability. A multidisciplinary team provides patients with the "tools" that allow them to take active responsibility for their health.