Demystifying COPD

This focused CE course is designed to enhance the clinical knowledge and skills of nursing professionals involved in the care of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It delivers an evidence-based overview of COPD’s pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management, with an emphasis on early identification and progression prevention.

Course content includes the differentiation between chronic bronchitis and emphysema, risk factors such as tobacco use and environmental exposures, and the interpretation of pulmonary function tests. Participants will gain insights into pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic treatment strategies, including bronchodilators, corticosteroids, oxygen therapy, and pulmonary rehabilitation.

The course also explores the role of nurses in facilitating smoking cessation, coordinating multidisciplinary care, and promoting patient self-management. Psychosocial considerations and quality-of-life assessments are integrated to support holistic patient-centered care.

Learning Objectives:

Upon successful completion of this course, participants will be able to:

• Describe the pathophysiology and clinical manifestations of COPD, including distinctions between its subtypes.
• Identify key risk factors and diagnostic criteria, including spirometry interpretation.
• Implement evidence-based pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic treatment protocols.
• Recognize signs of acute exacerbations and initiate timely interventions.
• Educate patients on smoking cessation, medication adherence, and symptom monitoring.
• Coordinate care with respiratory therapists, physicians, and other healthcare providers to optimize patient outcomes.

Course Completion Requirements:

To complete this CE course and receive full credit, participants must:

• Register for the course.
• Review all course materials.
• Complete the post-test with a passing score of 70% or higher.
• Submit a completed course evaluation.

Note: Some courses may include additional assignments or clinical case reviews

Important Disclosures:

• Conflict of Interest: The course planners, authors, and presenters have no financial or commercial conflicts of interest related to this educational activity.
• Commercial Support: This course has not received sponsorship or financial support from commercial entities.
• Non-Endorsement: Approval of this course as a continuing education activity does not imply endorsement of any products, services, or companies mentioned within the content.
• Off-Label Product Use: Any discussion of off-label medication use is clearly identified and supported by available evidence.