Patients with chronic lung diseases such as Asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) have persistent respiratory symptoms such as increased secretion production, dyspnoea and reduced effort tolerance. These symptoms can be magnified after a bout of exacerbation, which could in turn lead to a downward spiral of functional decline after hospital discharge. The vicious cycle of exacerbation and functional deterioration can accelerate disease progression, worsen long-term prognosis and increase hospital readmissions.
Pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) is a highly effective treatment that has been reported to mitigate the aforementioned, improve their quality of life, exercise tolerance and confidence in self-management strategies such as early self-recognition, compliance with exercise and secretion management. However, rehabilitating these patients can be challenging because of their evident respiratory symptoms. It is thus critical to have the knowledge on achieving a fine balance between having a treatment plan that is of sufficient intensity to bring about benefits but at the same time minimising symptoms and adverse effects. Patient education is also imperative to ensure patients are adequately empowered to manage their respiratory symptoms as they thrive in the community. Alongside, to help them live well, palliative interventions where required should be incorporated to alleviate more persistent respiratory symptoms, help support them through the disease process and improve their quality of life. These interventions can be delivered and reinforced in the community. This workshop aims to equip physiotherapists with the knowledge needed to manage patients with chronic lung diseases in the community.
Learning objectives:
- To understand the pathophysiology of common chronic lung diseases and the physiological principles of airway clearance techniques.
- To know the fundamentals of pulmonary rehabilitation programme and the role of oxygen therapy prescription.
- To understand the considerations and precautions in exercising patients with co-existing co-morbidities in chronic lung diseases.
- To increase awareness of the community services and the role of palliative care in the management of chronic lung diseases.
- To consolidate and apply knowledge to real-life scenarios.
