Care Plan for Managing COPD

Care Plan for Managing COPD

Category / Primary Body System

• Respiratory

Problem

• Patient is at risk for complications related to Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).

Goal

• Patient will not experience respiratory distress for the next 90 days.

Plan/Approach

1. Oxygen Therapy

   • Administer oxygen via nasal cannula as ordered to maintain adequate oxygen levels.

2. Hydration

   • Encourage adequate fluid intake if not contraindicated to help thin mucus and promote easier breathing.

3. Monitoring

   • Monitor for signs and symptoms of respiratory distress including shortness of breath, wheezing, and cyanosis. Notify MD if any signs are present.

4. Activity Management

   • Encourage the patient to pace activities as needed to avoid overexertion and manage energy levels.
   • Encourage the patient to perform deep breathing exercises daily as tolerated to improve lung function.

5. Positioning

   • Elevate the head of the bed when the patient is in bed to facilitate easier breathing and reduce the risk of respiratory distress.

6. Emotional Support

   • Provide emotional support as needed to help manage anxiety and stress related to COPD.

7. Medication Management

   • Administer medications as ordered, including bronchodilators, corticosteroids, and any other prescribed medications. Monitor for side effects and effectiveness.

Rationale

1. Oxygen Therapy

   • Administering oxygen as ordered helps maintain adequate oxygen saturation, reducing the risk of hypoxia and related complications.

2. Hydration

   • Adequate fluid intake helps keep mucus thin, making it easier to clear from the airways and improving breathing.

3. Monitoring

   • Regular monitoring allows for early detection and intervention of respiratory distress, preventing further complications.

4. Activity Management

   • Pacing activities and performing deep breathing exercises help conserve energy and improve lung capacity, reducing the risk of respiratory distress.

5. Positioning

   • Elevating the head of the bed facilitates better lung expansion and airflow, making breathing easier.

6. Emotional Support

   • Providing emotional support helps manage the psychological impact of COPD, reducing anxiety and improving overall well-being.

7. Medication Management

   • Proper medication management ensures the effectiveness of treatment, reducing symptoms and preventing exacerbations.

Actions

1. Oxygen Therapy

   • Administer oxygen via nasal cannula as prescribed, ensuring the device is used correctly and checking oxygen saturation levels regularly.

2. Hydration

   • Encourage the patient to drink fluids throughout the day, unless contraindicated by other medical conditions.

3. Monitoring

   • Monitor respiratory status including rate, depth, and ease of breathing. Document any signs of respiratory distress and notify the healthcare provider immediately if present.

4. Activity Management

   • Advise the patient to pace their activities and rest as needed to avoid overexertion.
   • Guide the patient in performing daily deep breathing exercises, providing instruction and support as needed.

5. Positioning

   • Ensure the patient’s head of bed is elevated when resting or sleeping to improve breathing.

6. Emotional Support

   • Offer emotional support and reassurance, addressing any concerns or anxieties the patient may have about their condition.

7. Medication Management

   • Administer prescribed medications, monitoring for side effects and effectiveness. Document medication administration and any observed effects.