Case Studies

Case 5: A 75-year-old man with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (Part 7 The respiratory system)

Alan is a 75-year-old man who is diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. He is a retired steel factory worker who smokes 30 cigarettes per day and drinks five cans of lager daily. His wife passed away five years ago and since then has not really socialized a great deal. Alan spends most of his time gardening or going for short walks in the park.

Alan has symptoms of breathlessness, persistent cough and phlegm. His symptoms are worse in winter. His GP has prescribed a variety of inhalers over the years, which he does not take regularly. He feels that he can do without them and feels embarrassed to tell his friends that he suffers from COPD. His daughter visits him twice a week to make sure that he is all right, and to do some of his shopping.

• 1. Describe the structures of the respiratory system. Consider the upper and lower respiratory tracts.

• 2. What are the risk factors associated with COPD?

• 3. How does assessment tool COPD Assessment Test (CAT) aid nurses in the management of Alan's COPD?

• 4. What advice will you offer Alan in the cessation of smoking?