Course Provider
Learning Objectives
Define chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and associated conditions.
Identify risk factors and discuss the role of cigarette use, infection, and chronic inflammation in the pathogenesis and progression of COPD.
Correlate pathologic changes in the lung with the clinical features of COPD.
Describe the pathophysiology of airflow limitation and air trapping.
Recognize and evaluate the clinical signs and symptoms of COPD.
Analyze the various criteria and tests used in the diagnosis of COPD.
Discuss the investigations used to assess the severity and to stage COPD.
Identify interventions that may reduce the risk of developing COPD, including smoking cessation.
Outline pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic options for the management of stable COPD.
Use your knowledge of pathophysiology and options for therapy to devise a strategy for managing COPD exacerbations in the ambulatory setting or in the hospital.