DEBBIE O CONNOR FOCUSED EXAM COPD 2026 PATIENT CARE ANALYSIS COMPLETE QUESTIONS AND SOLUTIONS

DEBBIE O CONNOR FOCUSED EXAM COPD
2026 PATIENT CARE ANALYSIS COMPLETE
QUESTIONS AND SOLUTIONS

◉ what are the signs and symptoms of COPD. Answer: -may
experience chest tightness with activity
-characteristically underweight with adequate caloric intake
-chronic fatigue
-physical examination findings
-prolonged expiratory phase
-wheezes
-decreased breath sounds
-barrel chest
-tripod positioning (relives dyspnea)
-pursed lip breathing (relieves dyspnea)


◉ what are some complications of COPD. Answer: -cor pulmonale
(right sided HF)
-exacerbations of COPD
-acute respiratory failure
-peptic ulcer disease
-depression/anxiety

, ◉ what is true of COPD exacerbations. Answer: -they are associated
with poorer outcomes
-are typical within course of disease, but increase in frequency as
disease progresses


◉ what are the primary causes of COPD exacerbations. Answer: -
bacterial or viral infections


◉ what are some signs of severity in COPD exacerbations. Answer: -
use of accessory muscles
-central cyanosis
-edema in lower extremities
-unstable BP
-right sided HF
-altered alertness


◉ what's are some treatment options for COPD exacerbations.
Answer: -short acting bronchodilators
-corticosteroids
-antibiotics (used with green or purulent sputum)
-supplemental oxygen therapy