Demystifying COPD

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a progressive respiratory condition marked by persistent airflow limitation and chronic inflammation of the airways, posing a significant burden on healthcare systems and patient quality of life. Demystifying COPD equips clinicians with a comprehensive, evidence-based understanding of the disease process, diagnostic criteria, and current standards of care across acute and chronic management settings.

This course emphasizes a practical approach to COPD assessment, including spirometry interpretation, classification of disease severity, and identification of exacerbation triggers. Participants will explore guideline-directed pharmacologic therapy, non-pharmacologic interventions, and patient education strategies that align with GOLD (Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease) recommendations.

Topics covered include:

• Pathophysiology and Disease Mechanisms: Understanding airflow limitation, airway remodeling, and the role of chronic inflammation in COPD progression.
• Clinical Presentation and Diagnosis: Identifying hallmark symptoms, risk factors, and the diagnostic role of pulmonary function testing and imaging.
• Classification and Staging: Applying GOLD criteria to determine COPD severity and guide therapeutic decisions.
• Pharmacologic Management: Review of bronchodilators, inhaled corticosteroids, phosphodiesterase-4 inhibitors, and combination therapies.
• Exacerbation Recognition and Treatment: Managing acute COPD exacerbations, use of systemic corticosteroids, antibiotics, and indications for hospitalization.
• Non-Pharmacologic Interventions: Smoking cessation, pulmonary rehabilitation, supplemental oxygen, and vaccination strategies.
• Patient Self-Management: Educating patients on inhaler technique, symptom monitoring, and adherence to maintenance therapy.
• Multidisciplinary Coordination: Collaborative approaches to long-term management, including respiratory therapy, case management, and palliative care considerations.

Completion Requirements:

To receive full CE credit, participants must:

• Register for the course.
• Complete all course modules and assigned readings.
• Pass the post-test with a score of 70% or higher.
• Submit course evaluations for each module.

Course materials may include case scenarios, state-specific policy references, and downloadable clinical tools for use in practice.

Important Disclosures:

• Conflict of Interest: Faculty and planners report no relevant financial relationships.
• Commercial Support: This activity received no external commercial funding or sponsorship.
• Non-Endorsement: Accreditation does not imply endorsement of any commercial products or companies.
• Off-Label Product Use: Any mention of off-label drug use is consistent with current clinical guidelines and evidence-based practice.