Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) describes a group of diseases that cause progressive damage to your lungs. These diseases include chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Sixteen million of the Americans who have COPD, about two million develop severe disease.

Emphysema develops gradually, causing progressive damage to the tiny air sacs in your lungs (alveoli). Shortness of breath is usually the first symptom; however, significant symptoms typically do not occur until the disease is far advanced.

Mercer Health Provides:
Comprehensive evaluation and care for COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) patients, including those with:

     •Chronic bronchitis
     • Chronic obstructive bronchitis
     • Emphysema
     • Combinations of the above

• Encourage and teach clients self-management of their disease
• Assess the client's medication regimen and assist with compliance
• Educate clients about appropriate use, storage, and safety of oxygen
• Provide palliative care for COPD patients with the following indicators:

     • Difficulty breathing at rest
     • Signs or symptoms of right heart failure
     • Unintentional weight loss