Identify two (2) “Evidence A” recommended non-pharmacological treatment options for this patient.

Non-pharmacological treatment of COPD includes interventions to improve the patient’s well-being without necessarily using drugs. They help the patient manage acute distress associated with breathing difficulties, become physically fit and make breathing less difficult. These include Regular physical activities such as cycling, walking, swimming, and jogging, which improve blood and oxygen circulation in the body and the patient’s quality of life. Additionally, exercise also improves the function of the heart muscles and cardiovascular system, thus lowering blood pressure. However, measures should be taken in patients with heart-related conditions and severe breathing difficulties.

Cessation of smoking. Smoking is a major cause of COPD; therefore, quitting is a good measure to prevent the condition from worsening. It can also reduce the chances of acquiring other infections that worsen COPD. Various strategies can be used to help the patient to stop smoking since it’s not easy. It includes drug therapy, such as nicotine use, and behavioral therapies. Behavioral therapy focuses on changing the patient’s mindset about their smoking urge. It focuses on learning the disadvantages of smoking and developing good alternative behavior. It also focuses on evaluating thought processes that are not helpful regarding smoking. The victim is taught about monitoring themselves, tolerating and changing negative thinking patterns.

Oxygen therapy is another non-pharmacological treatment option. In its late stages, COPD causes difficulties in breathing; therefore, supplemental oxygen is recommended. Oxygen concentrators and oxygen tanks can administer it. Oxygen concentrators are set up in a room, and oxygen is obtained and concentrated from the air. Oxygen tanks are portable, and the patient can easily move around. The use of oxygen relieves the muscles that are exhausted from strenuous breathing.

Another way is diet support. Patients suffering from COPD constantly lose a lot of weight, their muscles weaken with time, and eventually, they become physically unfit. Supplements that contain high calories are advisable, and the patients are also advised on routine weight check-ups. The patients should also watch out for excessive weight gain, which would render them unhealthy. Education programs for patients are another way to manage COPD. In these programs, patients are advised to take their medication well and use oxygen appropriately. The programs teach about some inhalation techniques and advise on preventing and managing acute respiratory illnesses. These programs also aim to educate the patient on how to tolerate this condition and live longer with it.

References

‘Lange, P., Ahmed, E., Lahmar, Z. M., Martinez, F. J., & Bourdin, A. (2021). Natural history and mechanisms of COPD. Respirology, 26(4), 298-321.