MANAGING COPD
Written by Ishanya Anthapur
Updated at February 21st, 2025
If you have a medical emergency, please dial 911 or go to the nearest hospital.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) requires ongoing management to reduce exacerbations and maintain lung function. Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) allows for continuous tracking of key health metrics such as oxygen levels, respiratory rate, and symptoms, enabling early intervention and personalized care. The following instructions provide essential guidelines for COPD patients using RPM, helping to improve symptom control, reduce hospitalizations, and enhance overall quality of life.
Contact RPM support Team or your provider if the following symptoms occur:
- Shortness of breath
- Chronic Cough
- Chest tightness/pain
- Bluish color of skin/nailbeds/lips
- Tachycardia/racing heartbeat
EDUCATION: Follow discharge instructions as provided AND:
- Visit www.lung.org/lung-health-and-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/copd/diagnosing-and-treating/ for additional resources on COPD.
ACTIVITY / EXERCISE: Follow discharge instructions as provided AND:
- Walk, bike, or do another activity EVERY DAY. Schedule rest breaks as needed.
- Increase activity as tolerated by 5 minutes per week as tolerated.
DIET: Follow discharge diet instructions as provided AND:
- Restrict sodium.
- Limit saturated fats and trans fats.
- Limit sweets and sugar-sweetened beverages.
- Drink plenty of water and fluids.
SMOKING CESSATION: Follow instructions as provided AND:
- Contact 1-800-QUIT-NOW (800) 784-8669 for additional resources.
- Visit www.quit.com for additional resources.
OUTPATIENT FOLLOW-UP: Follow up with RPM support Team or provider AND:
- Follow up with your specialist as needed.
- Follow up with your primary care provider as needed.
